NLC DEMANDS WAGE REVIEW AND LOWER PETROL PRICES

The Nigeria Labour Congress has demanded a new national minimum wage, a nationwide wage award and a reduction in petrol prices as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

The labour body said rising living costs had continued to erode workers’ purchasing power and called on the Federal Government to take measures to ease economic pressure on households.

The NLC urged the government to begin negotiations for a new minimum wage, arguing that the existing wage level no longer adequately reflects current living costs.

It also called for an immediate reduction in petrol prices to reduce transportation costs and the wider effect of high energy prices on businesses and households.

The union demanded a nationwide wage award for workers as part of measures to cushion the effects of rising prices.

The NLC said workers needed stronger purchasing power to cope with increases in the prices of food, transportation and other essential goods.

Its demands came as the country marked 66 years of independence, with economic hardship remaining a major concern for households.

The union said government policies should prioritise improving workers’ welfare and reducing the pressure of rising living costs.

The NLC’s position comes amid broader calls from organised labour for measures to protect workers’ incomes and address the effects of inflation.