Strike: NLC, TUC order FCTA workers back to work

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) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have instructed workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to immediately return to work, following successful negotiations with authorities.

The directive came after a meeting involving the labour unions, Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and members of the Senate Committee on the FCT.

The talks began late on Monday and stretched into the early hours of Tuesday.

In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the unions said the grievances raised by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) were comprehensively resolved.

According to the statement, both sides agreed that all legal actions related to the dispute currently before the National Industrial Court should be withdrawn.

“The honourable Minister assured Organised Labour of mutual respect and sustained engagement going forward,” the unions said.

They also stressed that workers would not face any form of punishment over their participation in the industrial action.

“It was agreed that, arising from the strike action, no worker shall be victimised in any manner,” the statement noted.

“All outstanding cases at the National Industrial Court (NIC) shall be withdrawn immediately.”

As a result, the unions announced the suspension of the strike and directed members back to their posts.

“Consequently, all JUAC members and all affiliates of the TUC and NLC working in the Ministry of the FCT (MFCT) are hereby directed to resume work immediately,” the statement added.

“All affiliates are enjoined to comply strictly with this directive in the interest of industrial peace and harmony in good faith.”

The statement was jointly signed by Nuru Toro, secretary-general of the TUC, and Benson Upah, acting general secretary of the NLC.

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