Nigerian Labour Groups Prepare for Possible Nationwide Action After Unproductive Meeting

Organised labour in Nigeria has asked its state councils and civil society groups to prepare for a possible nationwide action. This comes after a meeting with the Federal Government about petrol prices and the national minimum wage ended without any agreement.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) held the meeting on October 22, 2026. They presented several demands, including lowering petrol prices to 2024 levels, renegotiating the national minimum wage, and implementing previously agreed tax reliefs and allowances.

According to a statement from the NLC’s Acting Secretary General, Benson Upah, the government representatives were not prepared to discuss these issues meaningfully. No commitments were made, leaving the key issues unresolved.

The government has requested to postpone the meeting until Tuesday, October 27, 2026, to allow time for better preparation, including gathering all relevant ministers and officials. The NLC has expressed its commitment to dialogue but warned that it will not tolerate indefinite delays.

The NLC stated that if there is no significant progress by the next meeting, they will decide on further actions. They urged Nigerian workers and the public to remain calm and assured them that they will continue to advocate for workers’ interests.

Organised labour has called on all affiliates and civil society allies to stay alert and start mobilizing for potential action across the country, while hoping the government will address their demands.