The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised the alarm that Nigerian workers and citizens are enduring the worst survival crisis in the nation’s history.
This crisis is driven by skyrocketing inflation, worsening insecurity, poor wages, and the collapse of social protection systems.
According to the NLC, workers are now among the lowest paid in Africa, even compared to those in conflict-torn countries like Somalia and Sudan, leaving many unable to meet basic needs despite longer hours and harder work.
Salaries, particularly in the public sector and many private organisations, have failed to keep pace with inflation, while the national minimum wage of ₦70,000 is far below the cost of essential items such as food.
The sharp decline of the naira has further increased the price of imported goods, fuel, and services, while rising food, housing, and transport costs continue to erode purchasing power.
Weak social safety nets, insecure jobs, and inadequate pensions have left workers financially vulnerable, forcing many to self-fund essentials like healthcare, power, and security.
The NLC warns that unless urgent and comprehensive measures are taken to stabilize the economy, raise real incomes, and strengthen social protections, the financial insecurity of Nigerian workers will persist, undermining both individual well-being and the nation’s broader economic prospects.
It is therefore crucial for the Federal Government to take decisive action to address these threats and alleviate the hardships facing workers across the country.