The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a firm December 1, 2024, deadline for all state governments to implement the revised national minimum wage of N70,000. Amid rising economic challenges, the NLC claims fuel marketers are inflating petrol prices, placing additional financial pressure on citizens who are already grappling with hardship and hunger.

In a communiqué released Sunday following its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the NLC urged a swift overhaul of policies it labeled “anti-people.” The council cited worsening economic conditions and the financial burdens experienced nationwide as core motivators for their demands.

In July 2024, President Bola Tinubu approved a hike in the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, though its implementation has been inconsistent across states. While some states have committed to adopting the new wage standard, others have offered even higher rates. Yet, as of early November, several states have not commenced payments, and the NLC’s December ultimatum demands full compliance across the board.

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The NLC also announced it would direct state councils to initiate an indefinite strike on December 1 in any state that fails to comply. “Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have,” the communiqué emphasized.

Economic Concerns and Petrol Pricing Controversy

The NLC voiced serious concerns over Nigeria’s petrol pricing structure, arguing that inflated costs are worsening the economic strain on citizens. The NEC raised alarms over “fat cats” within the industry, accusing them of maintaining petrol prices that exceed actual market values. “Padding of costs and abnormal margins seems to be the order of the day,” the NLC declared, alluding to a supposed cartel-like control of pricing.

The communiqué highlighted the ongoing standoff between fuel marketers and the Dangote group, arguing that alleged manipulations are leading to unsustainable petrol prices. The NLC further demanded that Nigeria’s public refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna resume operations to stabilize supply and mitigate the impact of these high fuel prices on citizens.

National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee

In its commitment to transparency, the NLC revealed plans to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee. This body will embark on a nationwide campaign to assess compliance, mobilize workers, and sensitize citizens on the importance of upholding fair wages and economic rights.

“The NLC shall initiate a series of industrial actions in all non-compliant states and shall not relent until the minimum wage is fully implemented across Nigeria,” the statement concluded.