NLC announces nationwide protest December 17 over rising insecurity

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called for an upward review of the national minimum wage to N154,000, citing worsening economic conditions and declining purchasing power among Nigerian workers. The demand was formally conveyed through a letter issued by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), a branch of the NLC, and signed by Benjamin Anthony and Olowoyo Gbenga. The letter emphasised the “urgent necessity for an upward review of salaries and allowances” across the public service sector. According to the council, the current minimum wage no longer reflects economic realities, as persistent inflation, escalating food prices, and rising transport costs continue to erode the standard of living of workers nationwide. The proposed N154,000 minimum wage, the letter noted, is intended to restore a decent standard of living and alleviate financial pressures faced by Nigerian households. The council urged the Federal Government to commence immediate negotiations to implement the wage adjustment. The NLC’s appeal comes amid growing public concern over Nigeria’s cost-of-living crisis, with many families struggling to meet basic needs, including food, education, and healthcare. Analysts warn that failure to revise the minimum wage could exacerbate poverty levels and intensify social unrest. “This review is not only necessary but overdue,” the letter stated, highlighting that the existing wage structure has failed to keep pace with the economic realities confronting workers. The NLC’s call adds pressure on the government as the nation grapples with inflation rates exceeding 20%, and widespread economic hardship affecting millions of citizens. Observers say swift engagement with labour representatives will be critical to maintaining industrial peace and protecting workers’ welfare. As discussions unfold, workers and unions are expected to closely monitor government response, with potential industrial actions looming if negotiations fail to commence promptly. The outcome could have significant implications for public sector employees and the broader Nigerian economy.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced a nationwide protest scheduled for December 17, citing what it described as the worsening security crisis across the country.

In a notice circulated to state councils on December 10, following its NEC-in-session meeting held on December 4, the union condemned the escalating attacks by bandits and kidnappers.

It highlighted the November 17 abduction of female students from a boarding school in Kebbi State as a particularly troubling example.

The NLC criticised the reported withdrawal of security personnel from the school before the attack, calling the development a “dastardly and criminal” action that must be urgently investigated and prosecuted.

The communiqué directed all affiliates and state chapters to “fully mobilise” workers and civil society groups for the planned demonstration.

“The surge in kidnappings targeting schoolchildren has reached an alarming and unacceptable level,” the communiqué noted.

According to the NLC, the federal government has failed to provide adequate protection for schools, especially those in vulnerable or remote locations.

“The NEC-in-Session demands an immediate and thorough investigation into, and prosecution of, all those involved in the withdrawal of security personnel from the affected school,” the statement added.

It further stressed that authorities have “not done enough” to strengthen security around schools to safeguard pupils, students and teachers from attacks.

The NEC therefore instructed all NLC affiliates and state councils to prepare for the nationwide protest slated for December 17, 2025.

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