NLC Urges Workers To Resist Harsh Economic Policies.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on workers to stand against the government’s harsh economic policies, citing concerns over reneged agreements, rising tariffs, and a lack of meaningful social dialogue.
Speaking at the sixth quadrennial delegates’ conference of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticised recent economic measures, including arbitrary increases in telecom and electricity tariffs. He described these policies as attacks on workers and the broader society.
Ajaero also condemned inconsistencies in the implementation of the national minimum wage, alleging that some federal civil servants are experiencing unjustified reductions in their salaries. “This is unacceptable, and we must brace ourselves for a struggle to rein in these excesses. We cannot remain silent,” he stated.
Emphasising the need for accountable governance, Ajaero urged public officials to uphold their mandate with integrity and prioritise the interests of the working class. He warned against any form of dictatorship, stressing that political leaders must respect constitutional limits to safeguard democracy and social justice.
The NLC leader also accused the government and its agencies of abandoning their regulatory responsibilities in favour of powerful business interests. He urged workers to resist excessive taxation and fight for fair wages, arguing that properly paid workers contribute to economic growth.
“The economy benefits and the nation grows when workers receive fair wages. It is our collective responsibility to fight these ills and ensure Nigerian workers’ rights are protected,” Ajaero added.
Meanwhile, the immediate past President General of MWUN, Adewale Adeyanju, highlighted the union’s progress in improving labour relations, infrastructure, and workers’ welfare. He reaffirmed MWUN’s commitment to advocating for fair labour practices and policies that enhance economic stability for Nigerian workers.
