The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared its readiness for a nationwide campaign to push for a comprehensive review of Nigeria’s minimum wage, citing worsening economic conditions and the need to protect both workers and retirees.
Speaking in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero said the union is mobilizing for what he described as a “major national struggle” to improve workers’ welfare amid rising living costs.
Ajaero stressed that discussions on workers’ welfare must now include pensioners, noting that many retirees are living below the poverty line due to inadequate pensions. He revealed that the NLC will not only demand a new minimum wage but will also push for the establishment of a national minimum pension.
“The cost of living has risen sharply, making food, healthcare, and transportation increasingly unaffordable. Retirees deserve dignity after years of service,” he said.
He urged workers and pensioners to remain united and prepared, adding that organized labor would continue to demand payment of outstanding pension arrears and reforms to ensure financial security for retirees.
