The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to take urgent measures to reduce the price of petrol and commence the renegotiation of the national minimum wage.
The ultimatum was contained in a communiqué issued after a joint meeting of the NLC National Executive Council (NEC) and Central Working Committee (CWC) held at the Olaitan Oyerinde Hall, Labour House, Abuja, on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The meeting, presided over by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, deliberated on the economic situation in the country, the rising cost of living and what the union described as the growing hardship confronting Nigerian workers and the wider population.
Signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the labour centre expressed concern over rising inflation, the depreciation of the naira and the declining purchasing power of workers, saying the current economic situation had made it increasingly difficult for workers to afford basic necessities, including food, housing, healthcare, transportation and education.
The NLC said the current national minimum wage had been significantly eroded by rising living costs and demanded that the Federal Government commence negotiations for a new minimum wage before the end of October.
It also called for an immediate reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, arguing that high fuel prices had contributed significantly to increases in transportation costs, food prices and other essential commodities.
According to the union, petrol prices should be reduced to the level prevailing when the current national minimum wage was signed into law in 2024, as a measure to cushion the impact of the rising cost of living.
The NLC further demanded tax relief for workers as previously agreed and the immediate payment of wage awards to cushion the effects of the current economic hardship.
The Congress also called on the Federal Government to implement the terms of settlement reached with the Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Healthcare Professionals (JOHESU) on February 5, 2026, as well as address other outstanding demands.
It equally demanded the implementation of the resolutions and demands of the Joint Public Sector Negotiating Council (JPSNC).
The NLC said the two-week ultimatum would commence on Friday, October 9, 2026, warning that failure by the Federal Government to meet the demands within the stipulated period would compel the union to take further action as directed by its relevant organs.
The labour centre urged its affiliates and progressive allies to remain on alert and prepare for what it described as decisive action against policies considered detrimental to the interests of workers and the masses.
The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to resisting exploitation and oppression, insisting that Nigerian workers would remain organised and resolute in the struggle for improved living conditions and a more equitable society.
The communiqué was signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero.
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