By Ruth Ogbodu

The Nigeria Labour Congress has given state governments an ultimatum of December 1, 2024, to implement the new minimum wage.

It also accused fuel marketers of inflating petrol prices, claiming the pump price is significantly higher than the actual market value.

The NLC contended that Nigerians were being exploited, with citizens enduring heightened suffering and hunger due to government policies which keep pushing many into destitution.

In  a communique released on Sunday, following its National Executive Council meeting, the NLC highlighted the severe economic hardship across the country and called for an urgent review of policies it described as anti-people.

The NLC further directed state councils where the new minimum wage is not yet implemented to commence an indefinite strike starting December 1, 2024, in protest against the unaddressed labour issues.

In July 2024, President Bola Tinubu approved an increase in the minimum wage for Nigerian workers from N30,000 to N70,000.

However, the implementation across states has been gradual, with some still yet to adopt the new minimum wage.

While a number of states have pledged to meet the N70,000 minimum wage, others have gone further, committing to pay amounts higher than the federal mandate.

As of the first week of November, more than 20 states have announced the implementation of the new minimum wage.

The NLC’s call underscored its growing concerns over the economic strain on Nigerians and its commitment to holding both fuel marketers and the government accountable for citizens’ welfare.