NLC Gathers to Discuss Living Wage Amidst Assault on Workers’ Rights

This blog post sheds light on:

• The NLC’s proactive efforts to establish a living wage that addresses the financial struggles faced by Nigerian workers.
• It also highlights the NLC’s resilience in advocating for workers’ rights amidst recent assaults on their freedoms and
• emphasizes the importance of equitable remuneration for fostering productivity and national development.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is convening to brainstorm and determine a living wage that reflects the current cost of living. Despite recent attacks on workers in Imo State, the NLC remains persistent in advocating for freedom of association and collective bargaining. 

In Abuja, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has commenced its 2023 Harmattan School with a focused agenda on formulating a living wage that corresponds to the prevailing cost of living. As the Federal Government prepares to negotiate the new Minimum Wage with labour unions, the NLC aims to ensure that workers’ salaries align with the economic realities they face.

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Call for Urgent Labour Reforms

During the opening session, NLC President Mr. Joe Ajaero, represented by Congress Deputy President Benjamin Anthony, emphasized the importance of maintaining unwavering determination in adversity. Ajaero highlighted the recent assault on workers and their leaders in Imo State, stressing that such attacks pose a significant threat to the constitutionally protected rights of freedom of association and collective bargaining.

Ajaero urged the Imo State Government to promptly address labour issues by reinstating the so-called ‘ghost workers’ to their jobs, clearing outstanding salaries and pensions, and reinstating victimized workers. He pointed out that the difficult living conditions faced by working people, worsened by the removal of petroleum subsidies, have fueled inflation and increased poverty and inequality.

Recognizing the critical role of a well-motivated workforce in national development, Ajaero called on governments at all levels to prioritize fair remuneration and improving working conditions across the economy’s formal and informal sectors.

As participants engaged in the training program, Ajaero encouraged them to seize the opportunity to expand their knowledge by asking questions, sharing experiences, and interacting with facilitators and fellow attendees.

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The NLC expressed gratitude to various stakeholders, including the Minister of Labour and Employment representative, ILO Country Director for English Speaking West African Countries, NECA Director General, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung representative, Solidarity Centre Country Director, and members of the NAC, CWC, and NEC of the NLC for their attendance and support during the opening session of the NLC 2023 Harmattan School.

AnaedoOnline