The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the Federal Government until October 27, 2026, to address its demands for a reduction in petrol prices and an upward review of the national minimum wage, warning of possible nationwide industrial action if the issues remain unresolved.
The ultimatum followed an inconclusive meeting between organised labour and the Minister of Labour on Thursday, October 22. According to the NLC, the meeting ended without concrete commitments from the government on the demands presented by workers.
In a statement issued by the NLC Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, the union said petrol prices, which have risen to as high as ₦1,429 per litre in some locations, were placing additional pressure on workers and households. It is also seeking an upward review of the current ₦70,000 national minimum wage, arguing that rising living costs have significantly reduced workers’ purchasing power.
The labour centre said it had directed its affiliate unions, state councils and civil society allies to begin mobilising for possible nationwide action from October 27 if the government fails to address the outstanding issues. It maintained that the demands were necessary to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerian workers.
The NLC’s warning comes amid growing concerns over fuel costs, transportation expenses and the affordability of basic necessities. Organised labour is expected to reassess its next steps following the government’s response to its demands, with the October 27 deadline marking a critical point in the ongoing negotiations.
