Trade unions across Nigeria have begun an indefinite strike in protest at the government's proposed minimum wage increase and recent rise in electricity costs.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) announced the strike action on Friday after negotiations with the government deadlocked. The unions had demanded a significant increase in the minimum wage, from ₦60,000 to ₦494,000. The government's final offer of ₦60,000 was deemed insufficient.
Frustration Mounts Over Stalled Talks
President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, expressed disappointment at the government's failure to agree on a new National Minimum Wage Act. The unions had previously set a deadline of 31 May 2024 for negotiations to conclude.
Talks broke down on Tuesday after both sides presented their final positions. The unions had initially demanded a much higher figure but conceded some ground during negotiations.
Strike Action Gains Momentum
The strike has received widespread support from various sectors. The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has instructed lecturers to join the action, while aviation unions have announced the withdrawal of services at all Nigerian airports from midnight of 3rd June 2024.
Who's Affected?
A significant number of unions are participating in the strike, including those representing:
1. University staff (both academic and administrative)
2.Maritime workers
3.Electricity workers
4.Bank employees
5.Judiciary staff
6.Teachers
7.Nurses and midwives
8.Health workers
9.Petroleum workers
10.Railway workers
11.Civil servants
12.Aviation professionals
13.Agricultural college staff
14.Journalists
15.Food and beverage workers
16.Local government employees
17.Postal workers
18.Parliamentary staff
Impact and Next Steps
The strike is expected to cause significant disruption across the country, with potential impacts on public services, transportation, and various industries. It is unclear how long the strike will last, and further negotiations between the unions and the government are likely.
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