Organised labour has instructed its state councils and allied civil society groups nationwide to begin mobilising for potential nationwide action, following the failure of talks with the Federal Government to resolve key issues on petrol pricing and the renegotiation of the national minimum wage.
In a joint statement, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) stated that, during the meeting held on October 22, 2026, labour leaders presented their demands in good faith.
These include reducing petrol prices to 2024 levels, renegotiating the national minimum wage, implementing agreed tax reliefs, honouring the JOHESU settlement, and addressing the JPSNC’s requests regarding peculiar allowances, wage awards, and hazard allowances.
According to the statement, signed by Acting NLC Secretary General Benson Upah, the government delegation arrived without the necessary authority to negotiate and failed to make any substantial commitments, leaving core issues unresolved.
The Federal Government requested an adjournment to Tuesday, October 27, 2026, to allow time for proper preparations and to assemble all relevant ministers and agency heads.
While the NLC reaffirmed its commitment to dialogue, it warned that it would not tolerate indefinite delays. “We will report back to our organs, and if no meaningful progress is made on Tuesday, the relevant organs of the NLC will determine the next course of action.”
Labour leaders urged workers and the public to remain calm and steadfast, expressing hope that the government would act on the workers’ demands at the next meeting. “We assure all that we shall continue to pursue the interests of workers and the masses through every legitimate means available.
However, we urge all NLC affiliates, state councils, and our civil society partners to stay alert and begin mobilising for possible nationwide action, should the government fail to meet our demands,” the statement concluded.
