The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a strong New Year demand to the Federal Government, calling for immediate action on workers' wages, national security, and policies that alleviate the burdens on citizens in 2026.
Fortified Resolve, Not Naive Hope
In a message delivered on 31 December 2025, NLC President Joe Ajaero stated that the Congress is entering the new year with a fortified resolve, built on sustained pressure rather than wishful thinking. He acknowledged that the socio-economic hardships of 2025 had exposed deep vulnerabilities but failed to weaken labour's commitment to fighting for social justice and equitable wealth distribution.
Ajaero revealed that sustained pressure from organised labour had secured assurances from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for more meaningful engagement, opening a critical window for dialogue. However, he cautioned that this opportunity must be met with vigilance from both workers and the general citizenry.
Clear Demands: Living Wages and Safety
The NLC laid out specific, urgent demands for the government. Foremost is an immediate review of workers' wages to match the rising cost of living. The Congress insisted that income must guarantee a dignified life, aligning with the President's own pledge to pay a living wage, and not merely ensure survival amidst soaring inflation.
On the critical issue of security, Ajaero described the safety of lives and property as a non-negotiable fundamental right. While acknowledging recent gains made by security forces, he urged the government to consolidate these efforts. "Nigerians deserve peace and security wherever they live. There must be no retreat," he declared.
Accountability and Strategic Mobilisation
The labour leader outlined the Congress's clear duty: to organise, mobilise, and hold every tier of government accountable. He sent a stern warning that the NLC would actively resist any policies or actions by what he termed "mercantilistic politicians" that further impoverish Nigerians for the benefit of a privileged few.
Ajaero emphasised that organised labour would only support governments and political actors who demonstrate genuine commitment through clear, actionable, and pro-people programmes. The NLC's mobilisation in 2026, he stated, would be strategic and tactful, focused on national interest, unity, and resisting divisive tactics.
"Real hope is possible only when burdens are lifted or equitably shared, trust is rebuilt and the dreams of Nigerians are fulfilled, not betrayed," Ajaero asserted.
He concluded by saluting Nigerians for enduring 2025 and called for unity and collective action in the coming year, stating that "Our power remains in our numbers and our victory in our solidarity."
