The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to launch a nationwide campaign demanding a fresh review of the national minimum wage and comprehensive pension reforms aimed at improving the welfare of workers and retirees.
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, disclosed this during the inauguration of the Comrade Godwin Abumisi Pensioners Legacy House and Multipurpose Hall in Abuja, saying organised labour was entering a new phase of advocacy to address the growing economic challenges facing Nigerian workers and pensioners.
According to Ajaero, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), as an affiliate of the NLC, remains a critical stakeholder in the labour movement, making the welfare of retired workers a shared responsibility.
He said the congress had begun mobilising for what he described as a major national campaign to secure an upward review of the current minimum wage, stressing that the struggle would also focus on establishing a national minimum pension to guarantee financial security for retirees.
The labour leader lamented that many pensioners who devoted decades of service to the country now struggle to meet basic needs, describing the situation as unacceptable.
He noted that the soaring cost of living, driven by rising food prices, transportation costs and healthcare expenses, has further worsened the plight of both workers and retirees.
Ajaero also called for reforms to the nation’s pension system, insisting that retired workers deserve a dignified life after years of contributing to national development.
He urged pensioners across the country to remain united and actively participate in the planned campaign, adding that the newly commissioned Legacy House should serve as a centre for mobilisation, planning and collaboration.
The NLC president stressed that workers and pensioners must speak with one voice in demanding better welfare, noting that unity remained the labour movement’s strongest tool in engaging government.
He reaffirmed the congress’ commitment to pressing for the payment of outstanding pension arrears, improved workers’ welfare and policies that would guarantee pensioners a secure and dignified retirement.
Ajaero maintained that the labour movement would sustain its advocacy until government fulfils its obligations to both serving and retired workers across the country.
