NLC urges street protests in states not paying new minimum wage
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on workers in states failing to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act to mark May Day on the streets instead of holding indoor celebrations. In a statement signed by General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, the union criticised state governments for not complying with wage adjustments and timely payments. President Bola Tinubu signed the new minimum wage bill into law, raising the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000. Many workers and unions argue the new wage is still insufficient due to rising inflation and living costs.
What we know
- The NLC directed workers in defaulting states to observe May Day 2026 with street processions, suspending all official indoor events.
- The union condemned state governments for not implementing the new wage, including adjustments for senior staff and coverage for local government, teachers, and health workers.
- President Bola Tinubu signed the minimum wage bill into law on July 29, 2024, but many states have not fully complied.
- Workers are to assemble at 7:00 am on May 1, 2026, at designated locations and march to submit formal demands.
- In March 2026, organised labour proposed a new minimum wage of N154,000, citing inflation and the inadequacy of the current wage.
