NLC, TUC declare indefinite strike from October 3

Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) on Tuesday, during a joint press conference in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria disclosed their plan to initiate an indefinite strike starting on Tuesday, October 3.

The union leaders, in their joint press briefing, also urged their respective state chapters to organize protests across the nation.

It is reported that the leaders of both labour centers have resolved their differences, leading to this unified strike action. Previously, only NLC had undertaken a two-day warning strike without the involvement of TUC.

The meeting, as indicated in the notice signed by NLC Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, is being held virtually.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, has appealed to the NLC leadership to reconsider the planned strike, assuring them of the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. The minister acknowledged that one of NLC’s key demands from their last meeting regarding the release of the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers’ leadership had been met.

The ministry’s spokesperson, Olajide Oshundu, encouraged the workers’ unions to grant the government additional time to address the remaining issues.

On September 5 and 6, 2023, NLC had previously conducted a two-day warning strike to compel the government to address the widespread suffering experienced by Nigerians, particularly the working class.

Following their respective organizational meetings, conducted a joint press briefing on Tuesday at 3 p.m., announcing an indefinite nationwide strike due to the Federal Government’s inadequate response to the suffering and other socioeconomic challenges resulting from the removal of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.