NLC Plans Nationwide Action Over Minimum Wage, Pension Reform

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has declared that it is preparing for a nationwide campaign to push for a fresh review of the national minimum wage and better welfare for both workers and pensioners.

NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, made this known during the commissioning of the Comrade Godwin Abumisi Pensioners Legacy House and Multipurpose Hall in Abuja.

He said organised labour was entering a new phase of engagement aimed at improving the living conditions of Nigerian workers and retirees, adding that the welfare of pensioners should receive the same attention as that of serving workers.

According to Ajaero, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP) remains an important affiliate of the NLC, making the welfare of retired workers a shared responsibility for the labour movement.

He disclosed that the congress had begun preparations for a major national struggle to secure a comprehensive review of the current minimum wage.

The labour leader also revealed that the NLC would not limit its campaign to wage increases for active workers. He said the union would also seek the introduction of a national minimum pension to protect retired workers from poverty.

Ajaero argued that many pensioners who dedicated decades of their lives to public service now face difficult living conditions after retirement. He described the situation as unfair and said retired workers deserve a decent standard of living after years of contributing to national development.

He noted that the rising cost of living has made life increasingly difficult, with food, transportation and healthcare becoming more expensive across the country.

According to him, the current pension system leaves many retirees struggling to meet basic needs, making it necessary to introduce reforms that guarantee financial security after retirement.

Ajaero urged pensioners across the country to remain united and prepare for the campaign ahead. He said the newly commissioned Legacy House should serve not only as an administrative building but also as a meeting point for planning, mobilisation and cooperation among members.

He stated that workers and pensioners must remain united because those pursuing their own interests often work together, making it necessary for organised labour to also act with one voice.

The NLC president said the labour movement would continue to press the government to fulfil its obligations to serving workers as well as retired employees.

He described the completion of the Legacy House as more than a building project, saying it should strengthen the resolve of workers and pensioners to continue demanding fairness and accountability.

Ajaero also said the congress would continue to push for the payment of outstanding pension arrears and reforms that would guarantee pensioners a secure and dignified life.

He maintained that the labour movement would sustain its efforts until workers and retirees receive better treatment, improved welfare and the respect they deserve after years of service to the country.