The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have raised fresh concerns over the worsening security situation across the country, warning that they may be forced to declare a nationwide strike if urgent action is not taken.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made the disclosure on Monday while speaking at the ongoing International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland.
According to him, Nigerian workers can no longer continue their daily activities under the constant fear of kidnappings, bandit attacks and other violent crimes.
Ajaero said the safety of workers has become a major issue, stressing that many Nigerians now leave their homes each day without any guarantee of returning safely. He warned that organised labour would not remain silent if the situation continues to deteriorate.
The labour leader noted that insecurity has affected productivity and the general well-being of workers across different sectors of the economy. He maintained that protecting the lives of citizens should remain the primary responsibility of government.
Beyond the security concerns, the NLC and TUC also called on the Federal Government to commence the process for a fresh renegotiation of the National Minimum Wage. The labour centres argued that the current economic realities and rising cost of living have made a wage review necessary.
According to the unions, discussions on a new minimum wage should begin ahead of the expected expiration of the present arrangement next year. They said early negotiations would help avoid unnecessary delays and industrial disputes.
The labour movement has repeatedly insisted that workers deserve a living wage capable of meeting basic needs, especially as inflation continues to put pressure on household incomes across the country.
Although no date has been fixed for any industrial action, the threat signals the possibility of a major confrontation between organised labour and the government if the issues remain unresolved.
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