The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are intensifying efforts to mobilize for a nationwide protest scheduled for February 27 and 28, pressing for the immediate implementation of an agreement with the Federal Government to address the mounting cost-of-living crisis.
As frustration mounts, sources within the NLC leadership revealed to PUNCH that the National Executive Council (NEC) convened virtually on February 16 to assess the agreement’s progress. Disappointment with the government’s inaction on crucial promises prompted the unions to reassert their demand for prompt implementation.
“The NLC, during its Zoom meeting held on Friday, February 16, 2024, resolved to insist on the implementation of the agreement with the Federal Government without further delay,” a source familiar with the discussions confirmed.
With the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum issued by the unions on February 8, the planned two-day nationwide protest has been triggered by the government’s failure to comply. Benson Upah, NLC Head of Information, affirmed the mobilization efforts and steadfast commitment to the protest.
“Why would we retreat? Has anything changed to justify that? We are earnestly mobilizing,” Upah declared, dismissing any notion of withdrawing from the protest.
A memorandum dated February 18 and signed by the General Secretary of the National Union of Public Service Reportorial, Secretarial, Data Processors, and Allied Workers Union (NUPSRW), outlines the mobilization strategy, emphasizing the need for swift action by unions and their members. The memo calls for close collaboration between state and federal NLC chapters to ensure “active participation” in the protest.
As labor unions gear up for the protest, concerns about a potential fuel crisis have emerged. The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) initiated a strike on February 19, citing high operational costs. This strike has already led to fuel queues in several major cities, heightening fears of further disruption and hardship.
