Nigeria unions extend nationwide strike ultimatum by five days
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Leadership
Negotiations between the Nigerian federal government and unions have failed, extending by five days an ultimatum that could lead to a nationwide strike. The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress are demanding, among other things, a cut in petrol prices, the start of wage talks and payment of arrears, according to Leadership.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), two Nigerian trade union federations, have extended their ultimatum to the federal government by five days to respond to workers’ demands. The decision followed a negotiating meeting that produced no concrete commitment on Thursday 22 October at the Ministry of Labour in Abuja, according to Leadership.
The unions have set Tuesday 27 October for their next meeting with the government. They warned that a nationwide strike could be called if the talks fail to make substantial progress. In a joint statement, their leaders accused the government delegation of not having the necessary authority to negotiate.
Their demands include reducing fuel prices to their 2024 level, opening negotiations on the national minimum wage before the end of October, implementing previously agreed tax relief measures and paying outstanding wage bonuses. The unions are also seeking the resolution of disputes involving health workers and civil servants, including those concerning specific allowances and risk bonuses.
The NLC issued a 14-day ultimatum on 9 October. The unions said the next meeting should produce concrete progress towards addressing the cost of living and social commitments to workers.
Summary produced with the help of artificial intelligence tools, under AFREEQUE’s editorial responsibility.
