Organised labour in Nigeria has announced that negotiations for a new national minimum wage will begin in July 2026. The decision was disclosed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) during the 2026 May Day celebration held in Abuja, themed “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work.”
The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, explained that starting the process early is intended to avoid the delays that affected previous wage reviews. He called on workers across the country to remain united in pushing for a living wage that reflects current economic conditions.
Ajaero emphasized that unity is critical ahead of the negotiations, warning that divisions within the labour movement could weaken their bargaining strength. He also urged that workers should receive full payment of their basic salaries from July 2026 as an interim measure to ease the impact of ongoing economic hardship.
He reiterated the NLC’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and improving their welfare, stressing that solidarity among workers is essential in addressing challenges affecting their livelihoods and dignity.
Similarly, the President of the TUC, Festus Osifo, called for stronger social dialogue mechanisms, including the revitalisation of the National Labour Consultative Council. He noted the need for reforms in labour administration to promote fairness and efficiency in industrial relations.
Osifo also raised concerns over persistent violations of labour laws by some employers and urged authorities to enforce existing regulations more strictly. He criticized certain state governments for failing to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act despite improved revenues, describing such actions as detrimental to workers’ welfare.
In addition, he condemned interference in union activities, particularly attempts to impose parallel leadership structures, warning that such actions threaten the independence and stability of trade unions. He affirmed the TUC’s readiness to continue engaging employers to safeguard workers’ rights nationwide.
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