NLC: “Our struggle is to secure a future where every Nigerian can live with dignity”
In a powerful statement delivered at a Lagos workshop organized by the Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, defended the organization’s ongoing struggle with the government.
Ajaero, represented by Prince Adewale Adeyanju, 1st Deputy President of the NLC and President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), clarified that the NLC’s battle extends far beyond issues of wages.
“Today, we find ourselves in a crisis of survival, one that is not an accident but a direct result of poorly executed policies by the Tinubu-led federal government,” Adeyanju said.
He criticized the government’s handling of economic challenges, citing skyrocketing petrol prices, the devaluation of the Naira, and rising electricity tariffs as major contributors to the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
Adeyanju highlighted how these policies have worsened hardships, noting that inflation has effectively rendered the newly legislated N70,000 minimum wage nearly worthless.
“The increase in petrol prices has led to surging transportation and food costs, stretching household budgets to their breaking points,” he explained.
“The Naira’s devaluation has diminished purchasing power, making even basic necessities unaffordable. Meanwhile, soaring electricity tariffs are forcing many into darkness and crippling small businesses that form the backbone of our economy.”
He further condemned the unchecked corruption and fiscal irresponsibility that has allowed political elites to lead extravagant lifestyles, starkly contrasting with the daily struggles of average Nigerians.
“The disparity between the lavish lives of political office holders and the plight of Nigerian workers creates a deep inequality that undermines our societal fabric,” Adeyanju asserted.
Despite securing the N70,000 minimum wage through tireless negotiations, Adeyanju lamented that its value has been severely eroded by inflation. “What was meant to offer relief now barely covers basic needs,” he said.
“How can a worker earning N70,000 survive when inflation reduces this wage to virtually nothing?”
The NLC’s fight, according to Adeyanju, is about more than just wage increases. It is about ensuring that Nigeria’s economy functions fairly for all citizens, not just the privileged few.
“Our struggle is about securing a future where every Nigerian can live with dignity and access equal opportunities. It’s about creating an economy that serves everyone, not just the select elite,” he concluded.
