Hardship: “We Shall Engage Government for Wage Review to Safeguard Workers’ Welfare” – NLC President Joe Ajaero

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed its intention to engage the Federal Government on a wage review to address the challenges posed by recent economic policies. NLC President Joe Ajaero highlighted this in a New Year message to Nigerian workers, emphasizing the need to safeguard their welfare in the face of rising economic pressures.

Ajaero urged all levels of government to adhere strictly to the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. He stressed that compliance from the start of the year would help ensure that workers’ incomes can meet their basic needs, fostering greater productivity and commitment. He called for collective action between the government and labor unions to prioritize workers’ welfare and create an environment conducive to economic growth and shared prosperity.

As Nigeria moves into 2025, Ajaero emphasized the need for unity and determination to address the nation’s challenges. He called on the government to prioritize the well-being of citizens, ensuring access to essential services such as food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security. He argued that governance must deliver tangible benefits, with policies rooted in transparency, inclusivity, and accountability.

Ajaero also criticized the current Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly, urging their withdrawal to allow for broader stakeholder involvement. He announced plans for a National Dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, aimed at developing a widely accepted tax law to support national development.

Additionally, the NLC president called on the government to embrace social dialogue, respect agreements with trade unions, and prioritize policies that foster industrial peace. He warned against the use of force in dealings with unions, noting that such tactics could lead to unrest.

The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting workers’ rights while advocating for policies that drive national development. Ajaero emphasized the union’s responsibility to its members and urged the government to govern responsibly, ensuring policies that yield positive outcomes for all Nigerians.