Our Protest Is About Hunger, Not Minimum Wage – Says NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has said that the recent two-day protest staged by its members reflects a broader concern over hunger, rather than solely advocating for a review of the minimum wage.

Despite efforts to avert the protest through discussions between the Federal Government and NLC representatives, dialogue reached an impasse.

President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, emphasized on Tuesday that the protest addresses the pressing issue of hunger, extending beyond the call for an increase in the current minimum wage of N30,000.

Ajaero underscored the urgency of addressing basic needs, citing the United Nations’ guideline that the poorest individuals should have access to at least $2 per day for sustenance.

He highlighted the inadequacy of the current minimum wage in addressing essential expenses such as food, transportation, accommodation, and healthcare.

Ajaero criticized the Federal Government for failing to fulfill the union’s demands following the removal of fuel subsidy, which has significantly escalated the cost of living.

Furthermore, he lamented the delay in implementing proposed solutions, including the introduction of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses and cash transfer programs, to alleviate the economic hardship faced by citizens.

Ajaero warned that if the government fails to address these issues promptly, the union will consider alternative courses of action.