The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed its state councils to begin an indefinite strike on December 1, 2024, in any state where the N70,000 minimum wage is not fully implemented.

This decision follows the NLC’s appeal to the Federal Government to review policies perceived as harmful to citizens, warning that such measures are pushing Nigerians into poverty.

In a communiqué issued by NLC President Joe Ajaero at the conclusion of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the NLC condemned the delay or outright refusal of some state governments to comply with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. Ajaero emphasized that withholding funds designated for workers’ salaries and benefits amid a political crisis in Rivers State was unjust, and stressed that such actions should not be used to make workers victims.

The communiqué states: “The NEC notes with deep frustration the persistent delay and outright refusal by some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. This betrayal by certain governors and government officials across the country flies in the face of both legality and morality, as workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amidst rising economic hardship. It is a blatant disregard for the law and the lives of millions of Nigerian workers, who are being exploited by the very leaders sworn to protect them.”

To address this, the NEC has resolved to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee tasked with nationwide assessments, mobilization, and campaigns to raise awareness among workers and citizens about resisting violations of their rights.

Additionally, the NLC has resolved to initiate industrial actions in all non-compliant states until full implementation of the minimum wage is achieved. All state councils where the new wage law remains unimplemented by November 30, 2024, have been directed to commence strikes on December 1. “Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have,” the communiqué concluded.