By Aliu Akeem
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)’s planned nationwide strike, slated for December 1, 2024, over the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, is facing significant resistance. Several state chapters of the union have opted out, citing commitments and agreements with their respective governments. The strike, aimed at pushing defaulting states to implement the national minimum wage, now risks losing momentum as negotiations and assurances overshadow labor’s resolve.
President Bola Tinubu approved the new minimum wage in July 2024, pledging a review every three years. Some states, such as Lagos and Rivers, offered higher wages up to N85,000, while others lagged in implementation. Despite this, cracks in the labor movement have emerged, as several states pull back from the proposed industrial action.
States Reject Strike Amid Implementation Assurances
Imo, Sokoto, and Oyo Dissociate from the Strike
In Imo State, NLC Chairman Uche Chigaemezu confirmed that no strike would occur as the state government had demonstrated commitment to paying the new minimum wage. Governor Hope Uzodimma’s assurances prompted the state chapter to communicate its non-participation to the national leadership.
Sokoto NLC withdrew after Governor Ahmed Aliyu announced the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage beginning January 2025. A memorandum of understanding between labor representatives and the state government cemented this agreement.
In Oyo State, NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) also withdrew from the strike, citing productive discussions with the state government. The unions highlighted that negotiations were nearing completion, further affirming their decision to opt out.
Further Withdrawals
Katsina, Akwa Ibom, and Abia also reflected mixed responses. Katsina’s labor leaders confirmed agreements for December wage implementation, aligning with government commitments. In Akwa Ibom, the TUC noted that negotiations had reached advanced stages, negating the need for industrial action. Meanwhile, Abia’s NLC chapter remains indecisive, awaiting further dialogue with the government.
States Supporting the Strike
In contrast, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Zamfara, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have maintained their resolve to join the strike. These states cite non-payment or delays in implementing the minimum wage as reasons for their participation.
Kaduna’s NLC Chairman, Ayuba Suleiman, confirmed readiness for the industrial action, emphasizing the state government’s lack of formal agreements. Similarly, the FCT council criticized area council chairmen for failing to meet workers’ demands, calling the situation a “gross violation” of labor rights.
Zamfara labor leaders expressed frustration over unmet promises, committing to the strike despite ongoing dialogue. Nasarawa also aligned with the NLC’s nationwide directive, signaling solidarity with affected workers.
NLC Response: No Tolerance for Empty Promises
The NLC’s national leadership has dismissed the excuses provided by state chapters opting out. Akeem Ambali, NLC National Treasurer, accused some state governments of making verbal commitments without formal agreements or immediate implementation.
Ambali emphasized that states delaying payments or promising future implementation, such as January 2025, would face the full impact of the strike. He stated, “Labour is resolute. Only states fully implementing the minimum wage will be spared from the industrial action.”.
