The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it is preparing for a major national struggle to push for a comprehensive review of the national minimum wage and improved welfare for pensioners.
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, disclosed this in Abuja while speaking at the commissioning of the Comrade Godwin Abumisi Pensioners Legacy House and Multipurpose Hall.
Ajaero said the welfare of workers could no longer be discussed without addressing the needs of Nigerians who had completed their years of active service.
He urged workers and pensioners to prepare for the ideological and economic battles ahead, stressing that the Nigeria Union of Pensioners remains a proud affiliate of the NLC.
“The Nigeria Union of Pensioners is one of the proud affiliates of the Nigeria Labour Congress. Therefore, your struggle is our struggle, and your welfare remains a priority for the organised labour movement,” he said.
“We are currently in the preparatory stages for a major national struggle for a comprehensive review of the national minimum wage.”
Ajaero said the NLC would not only push for a new national minimum wage but would also demand the establishment of a national minimum pension.
He described it as a historical injustice for Nigerians who devoted their productive years to national service to be left living below the poverty line after retirement.
NLC Decries Rising Cost of Living
The NLC president said the rising cost of food, healthcare and transportation had made life increasingly difficult for Nigerians.
“We cannot continue to allow our senior citizens to survive on pensions that have become poverty wages. Every retiree deserves to live with dignity after decades of faithful service to the nation,” he said.
He urged pensioners nationwide to remain united and prepared as the process begins, describing the newly commissioned Legacy House as more than a physical structure.
According to him, the facility should serve as a centre for mobilisation, strategic engagement and solidarity in preparation for the struggles ahead.
READ ALSO:
- NLC Opposes N6tn GenCo’s Bailout, Proposes Energy Ministry Merger
- ₦1m Salary Worthless Without Stable Economy — NLC Warns
- Strike: NLC Backs ASUU, Gives FG 4-Week Ultimatum
- NLC Rejects GenCos’ ₦6trn Debt Claim, Alleges Moves to ‘Loot Public Treasury’
Ajaero also called for the immediate payment of all outstanding pension arrears and the implementation of a pension regime capable of guaranteeing retirees’ dignity and security.
He said the working class must remain united in defending its collective interests and ensuring that the government fulfils its obligations to serving workers and retirees.
“We must not only build physical structures but also build a strong movement capable of compelling government to honour its commitments,” he said.
Ajaero vowed that organised labour would continue to push for justice, respect and improved welfare for Nigerian workers and pensioners.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.