The NLC's planned nationwide strike on December 1, 2024, faces delays as multiple states, including Imo, Sokoto, and Oyo, pull out, citing agreements with their governments on the new N70,000 minimum wage. However, other states, such as Kaduna and the FCT, are set to participate due to non-implementation
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) planned strike, scheduled for December 1, 2024, is facing complications as several state chapters have distanced themselves from the action. The strike was called to protest the delayed implementation of the newly approved N70,000 minimum wage for workers, announced by President Bola Tinubu in July. While some states like Lagos and Rivers have already committed to paying above the N70,000 minimum wage, 13 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have yet to comply.
States such as Imo, Sokoto, Oyo, and Katsina have withdrawn from the strike after reaching agreements with their respective governments. Imo’s NLC chairman confirmed that the state government, led by Governor Hope Uzodimma, has committed to paying the N70,000 wage. In Sokoto, Governor Ahmed Aliyu announced plans to implement the wage starting January 2025, leading the NLC chapter to pull out of the strike. Similarly, Oyo and Katsina states have reported agreements with the government to address the wage issue.
However, states like Kaduna, Nasarawa, and the FCT remain resolute in participating in the strike, citing delays in the full implementation of the new wage. The NLC has rejected the justifications provided by states for not fully complying, emphasizing the need for formal agreements and action to meet workers' demands. While some states like Jigawa face delays, others like Zamfara and Cross River are still in negotiation with labor unions
