Labour Union Prepares for Nationwide Confrontation as Minimum Wage Negotiations Loom — NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress, led by President Comrade Joe Ajaero, has expressed its readiness to embark on a significant national struggle for a comprehensive review of the national minimum wage, with Ajaero making this announcement at the commissioning of the Comrade Godwin Abumisi Pensioners Legacy House and Multipurpose Hall in Abuja.

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Ajaero emphasized that discussing workers' welfare without considering the welfare of retirees is no longer acceptable, as it is essential to prioritize the well-being of those who have completed their active years of service, alongside the welfare of active workers.

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The NLC president advised workers and pensioners to prepare for the upcoming ideological and economic battles, stating that the Nigeria Union of Pensioners is a proud affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, and their struggle is a priority for the organized labour movement.

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Ajaero declared that the NLC is currently preparing for a major national struggle to review the national minimum wage, while also pushing for the establishment of a national minimum pension to address the historical injustice of retirees living below the poverty line.

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The cost of living has risen significantly, with food, healthcare, and transportation becoming increasingly unaffordable, making it essential to ensure that retirees are not forced to survive on poverty wages, according to Ajaero.

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He emphasized that every retiree deserves to live with dignity after decades of faithful service to the nation, and urged pensioners across the country to remain united and prepared as the process begins.

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Ajaero views the Legacy House as a centre for mobilization, strategic engagement, and solidarity, rather than just a physical structure, as the working class must remain united in defending their collective interests and ensuring the government fulfils its obligations to both serving workers and retirees.

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The completion of the project should serve as a call to action for all workers and lovers of the masses, according to Ajaero, who stressed the need to build a strong movement capable of compelling the government to honour its commitments.

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Ajaero reiterated the NLC's demand for the immediate payment of all outstanding pension arrears and the implementation of a pension regime that guarantees every retiree a life of dignity and security.

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The NLC president concluded by stating that the organization will continue to fight until every Nigerian worker and pensioner receives the justice, respect, and welfare they deserve, with the collective efforts of workers and pensioners being crucial in achieving this goal.