Nigeria Labour Congress to Press for Urgent Pay Rise in 2026 Amid Inflation Pressures

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to engage governments at all levels in dialogue aimed at securing an urgent review of workers’ wages in 2026, citing rising inflation and worsening economic hardship across the country.

The labour movement said its mobilisation efforts in the coming year would be strategic and carefully coordinated, stressing that it would support only governments and political actors who demonstrate clear, pro-people policies and practical commitments to improving the welfare of Nigerians.

In a New Year goodwill message signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC pledged to organise, mobilise and hold every tier of government accountable to the people.

The Congress said it intends to build on the promise of more meaningful engagement by the Federal Government, as pledged by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the commitment was secured through sustained pressure and collective action by organised labour.

“We acknowledge this platform and will engage deeply, consciously and patriotically,” the statement said, urging workers and citizens to remain vigilant and committed to national development as the country enters 2026.

The NLC warned that it would not align with what it described as mercantilistic politicians who rely on empty promises, divisive rhetoric and policies that undermine living standards for the benefit of a few. It said genuine hope for Nigerians can only emerge when economic burdens are reduced or fairly shared, trust is restored and the aspirations of the people are fulfilled rather than betrayed.

Against the backdrop of soaring inflation, the Congress demanded an immediate review of wages, insisting that workers’ earnings must guarantee a decent life and not mere survival, in line with the President’s pledge to pay living wages. It said it would pursue this demand through all legitimate means available.

On security, the NLC described safety of lives and property as a fundamental right and the primary responsibility of the state. While acknowledging recent gains in tackling insecurity, it urged the government to sustain and build on those efforts, stressing that Nigerians deserve peace and security in every part of the country.

The labour centre noted that the past year had been difficult and had exposed the nation’s vulnerabilities, but said the challenges had not weakened citizens’ resolve to strive for national cohesion, equitable distribution of wealth and social justice.

“We enter this new year not with naïve hope, but with a fortified resolve, strengthened by struggle and clarity,” the statement added.