Enough Is Enough!” – NLC Demands New Minimum Wage As Inflation Deepens Workers’ Pain

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently reassess workers’ wages in 2026, pointing to rising inflation and deepening economic hardship nationwide.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In his New Year message to workers, NLC President Joe Ajaero stressed that salaries must amount to a true living wage rather than barely sustaining survival.

“Against the backdrop of escalating inflation and growing suffering, we demand an immediate review of wages. Workers’ earnings must guarantee a decent life, not mere survival, in line with Mr President’s pledge to pay living wages. We are prepared to pursue this demand through all legitimate means,” Ajaero said.

He described 2025 as an especially tough year for Nigerian workers, marked by severe economic pressure and increased vulnerability.

“As we step into 2026, the Nigeria Labour Congress extends solidarity to every worker and to all citizens weighed down by the current socioeconomic realities. The past year was undeniably difficult and laid bare our collective vulnerabilities,” he noted.

Despite the challenges, Ajaero said organised labour remained unwavering in its commitment to social justice and fair distribution of national wealth.

“While these difficulties tested us, they did not weaken our resolve to pursue national unity through equitable wealth redistribution and social justice,” he added.

The NLC president said the new year begins with cautious optimism, following assurances from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of more meaningful engagement with labour.

“We approach this year not with blind optimism, but with renewed determination born from struggle and clarity. The President’s assurances of deeper and more sincere engagement have opened a possible pathway for dialogue,” he said.

However, Ajaero warned that labour would stay alert and ready to mobilise workers to demand accountability from government at all levels.

“Our responsibility is clear: to organise, mobilise, and hold every tier of government accountable. We will only support administrations and political actors that show, through concrete actions and people-centred policies, a genuine commitment to lifting Nigerians out of poverty,” he stated.

He also cautioned against political manipulation, vowing that organised labour would reject leaders who thrive on hollow promises and divisive politics.

“We completely reject politicians whose trade is empty rhetoric, division, and policies that erode living standards for the benefit of a privileged few,” Ajaero said.

On security, the labour leader emphasised that peace and safety must remain a priority for all levels of government, noting that stability is essential for national development.

“While we acknowledge recent gains, we urge government to consolidate these successes. Nigerians deserve peace and security wherever they live, and the government must continue to move forward without retreat,” he added.

Ajaero concluded by calling for unity among workers in 2026, describing solidarity as the strongest force for meaningful national change.

“Let us move ahead more united, more organised, and more determined than ever. Our strength lies in our numbers, and our victory is rooted in our solidarity,” he said.