The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to urgently review workers’ wages in 2026, citing rising inflation and worsening hardship across the country.
In his New Year address to workers, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said salaries must reflect a “living wage” and not merely sustain survival. He stressed that workers’ earnings should be sufficient to guarantee a decent standard of living.
According to him, escalating inflation has eroded the value of workers’ incomes, making a wage review unavoidable. He said the NLC would pursue the demand through all legitimate means available to organised labour.
Ajaero described 2025 as a particularly difficult year for Nigerian workers, noting that the period exposed deep socioeconomic challenges and vulnerabilities. Despite this, he said the struggles did not weaken the resolve of labour to fight for justice, equity, and fair redistribution of wealth.
He added that 2026 presents a renewed opportunity for dialogue with the Federal Government, following assurances from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on meaningful engagement and improved welfare for workers. The NLC, he said, is prepared to engage constructively but firmly.
The labour leader urged workers to remain vigilant, patriotic, and united in the new year, stressing that the congress would continue to organise and mobilise to hold all levels of government accountable. He warned that the NLC would only support leaders and policies that demonstrate genuine commitment to improving the lives of the masses.
Ajaero also condemned politicians who thrive on empty promises, divisive tactics, and policies that worsen living conditions, insisting that organised labour would resist such practices in 2026.
On security, he said the safety of lives and property must remain a top priority for governments at all levels, adding that recent gains should be sustained to ensure lasting peace across the country.
He concluded by calling for unity among workers, noting that collective action and solidarity remain the strongest tools for national transformation. He encouraged Nigerians to face 2026 with resilience, hope, and determination despite anticipated challenges.
