The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to engage governments at all levels in dialogue to secure an urgent review of workers’ wages, citing rising inflation and worsening economic hardship across the country.
In a New Year goodwill message signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the labour movement said it would intensify efforts to ensure workers’ incomes reflect current economic realities and guarantee decent living conditions rather than mere survival.
The NLC also declared that its 2026 mobilisation strategy will be both strategic and tactful, stressing that it will support only governments and political actors that demonstrate genuine commitment to pro-people policies through clear plans and actionable steps.
Labour Vows Accountability and Pro-People Engagement
According to the congress, it remains committed to organising, mobilising, and holding every tier of government accountable in the interest of Nigerian workers and citizens.
The labour body said it intends to build on assurances of improved engagement from the federal government, which it said were secured through sustained pressure and collective advocacy.
The NLC urged workers and the general public to remain vigilant and patriotic as the country enters 2026, while reaffirming its rejection of politicians driven by empty promises, divisive rhetoric, and policies that erode living standards for the benefit of a privileged few.
Inflation Fuels Call for Living Wages
Amid escalating inflation and economic strain, the NLC reiterated its demand for a comprehensive wage review, insisting that workers’ earnings must align with the cost of living.
The congress said it would pursue this demand using all legitimate means, in line with the president’s pledge to ensure the payment of living wages for Nigerian workers.
Security, Governance and National Resolve
On national security, the NLC described safety as a fundamental right and a core responsibility of the state. While acknowledging recent gains in tackling insecurity, it urged authorities to sustain and expand these efforts to guarantee peace across all regions.
Reflecting on the past year, the NLC noted that although the period exposed significant national challenges, it had also strengthened citizens’ resolve to push for social justice, equitable wealth distribution, and national cohesion.
The congress said it enters the new year with renewed determination, emphasising its readiness to engage constructively with government while remaining firm in defending the interests of Nigerian workers.
