In a powerful New Year's address, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a direct appeal to the Federal Government, demanding an immediate review of workers' wages and a significant strengthening of national security for the year 2026. The labour centre, alongside the Trade Union Congress (TUC), also preached unity among workers and citizens, warning that organised labour will fiercely resist any government actions that deepen poverty among Nigerians.
Fortified Resolve, Not Naive Hope
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, in his message dated 1 January 2026, stated that the socioeconomic challenges of 2025 had exposed deep national vulnerabilities. However, he emphasized that these hardships had not weakened the labour movement's determination to fight for social justice and a fair redistribution of wealth.
Ajaero declared that the Congress was entering the new year with a "fortified resolve rather than naïve hope." He pointed to assurances of more meaningful dialogue with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which he said were secured through sustained pressure from labour unions. This, according to him, has opened a critical window for engagement.
The NLC President stressed that workers must remain vigilant, adding that organised labour would only lend its support to governments and politicians who demonstrate genuine commitment to improving the lives of the masses through clear, actionable programmes. He strongly rejected what he termed "mercantilistic politicians" whose policies allegedly worsen living standards for the benefit of a privileged few.
Core Demands: Living Wage and National Security
Against the backdrop of rising inflation and widespread hardship, the NLC's primary demand is an urgent review of the national wage. The union insists that workers' income must be sufficient to guarantee a dignified life, aligning with President Tinubu's earlier pledge to pay a living wage, not merely a survival wage.
On the critical issue of security, Ajaero described the safety of lives and property as a non-negotiable fundamental right. While acknowledging recent security gains, he urged the government to consolidate on these improvements. "Nigerians deserve peace and security wherever they live. There must be no retreat," he asserted.
Ajaero also outlined that labour's mobilisation in 2026 would be strategic and tactful, focused on the national interest, unity, and resistance to divisive tactics. He called on all workers and citizens to stand together in solidarity, describing collective action as the most potent tool for achieving meaningful national transformation and reconciliation.
TUC Lagos Echoes Call for Unity and Respect
In a complementary New Year message, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), Lagos State Council, reflected on the trials of 2025. The Chairman of the Lagos State Council, Abiodun Aladetan, stated that the year had tested workers economically, socially, and institutionally.
Praising Nigerian workers for not surrendering to despair, Aladetan said, "Instead, you stood firm, demanding fairness, equity, and respect through lawful, peaceful, and principled engagement. That courage must remain our compass in 2026."
He expressed hope that 2026 would be a year where the voices of workers are not only heard but genuinely respected. The TUC chairman called for continued unity, vigilance, and active engagement among workers. He urged them to rebuild trust within their ranks, bridge existing divides, and move forward with a shared vision of a stronger and more responsive labour movement.
Both messages from the nation's leading labour centres set a clear and determined tone for engagement with the government in 2026, centering on the immediate economic welfare of workers and the fundamental security of all citizens.
