The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have called on the Federal Government to discard and reform all policies contributing to the current economic crisis, which has resulted in widespread hunger, suffering, and inequality across the country. This appeal came during a joint National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Abuja, where leaders from both labor centers reviewed the socioeconomic conditions facing workers and the broader population.
The labor leaders stressed the need for immediate and practical multidimensional relief measures to alleviate the hardships being experienced by Nigerians. This meeting followed a prior discussion with the Federal Government, where NLC and TUC officials briefed NEC members on the outcomes and assessed the ongoing economic challenges.
Sources at the NEC meeting indicated that members collectively acknowledged the severe socioeconomic challenges exacerbated by frequent hikes in petrol prices, which directly affect the yet-to-be-implemented 2024 national minimum wage. They expressed concern over the increasing frustration and hopelessness among citizens, particularly among fixed-income earners, due to the federal government’s persistent fuel price increases.
The NEC noted, “Reports from across the country highlight the growing frustration, anger, and hopelessness due to the economic policies that have inflicted untold hunger and suffering on the masses.”
Moreover, members pointed out that these detrimental policies were influenced by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. They criticized the government for adopting these policies without regard for their impact on Nigeria’s economic sovereignty and the welfare of its citizens. The labor leaders emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the well-being of the Nigerian people.