Nationwide strike commences in Nigeria as labour unions, government dispute over wage

Organised labour unions in Nigeria have commenced a nationwide strike action as they lock horns with the government over wage disputes. The strike highlighted the raging economic hardship that has taken a huge toll on Africa’s most populous since the removal of fuel subsidies by the new administration…

Nationwide strike has commenced across Nigeria on Monday after negotiations failed between the government and organised labour unions over the minimum wage dispute.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had on Friday declared a nationwide strike beginning from Monday, June 3rd, 2024, over the tripartite committee’s inability to agree on a new minimum wage and hike in electricity tariff.

The organised labour bodies are seeking a new minimum wage to cushion the biting cost of living in Nigeria that has reached new record levels, following the removal of subsidies and floating of the local currency.

Fuel distribution, health, banking, and other essential services nationwide are expected to be affected, as critical sector unions have written to their members to ensure total compliance.

Last minute moves by the leadership of the National Assembly failed to stop the proposed strike, after a marathon meeting with the unions.

Meanwhile, in a bid to forestall potential chaos and uphold the sanctity of law and order, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has issued a resounding call for restraint, urging organized labour to reconsider its proposed nationwide strike action.

Encouraging calmness and compliance with the law, the NPF reiterates the importance of dialogue and legal avenues in addressing grievances and fostering constructive resolutions.