The two primary labor unions in Nigeria have announced an indefinite strike starting Monday due to a dispute with the government over a new minimum wage. Both the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had previously warned that they would initiate the strike if the government did not address their concerns regarding the minimum wage.
On Tuesday, the unions proposed a minimum wage increase to 60,000 Naira, which the government rejected. The government representatives failed to show up for a scheduled meeting on Friday, further aggravating the unions.
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In addition to the minimum wage issue, the unions are also protesting against the recent hike in electricity tariffs implemented last month. Some consumers saw their electricity rates more than double in April, while the government anticipates saving at least $788 million this year by cutting subsidies.
These measures, initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, are aimed at reducing costs amidst Nigeria’s economic challenges, including declining revenue due to reduced investments and persistent oil theft.
