NLC Orders Nationwide May Day Protests Over Non-Implementation of Minimum Wage
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed workers across the country to stage peaceful protests on May 1, 2026, in states that have yet to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
The directive was issued in a statement signed by the NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, who stressed that traditional May Day celebrations would not take place in defaulting states.
According to the statement, workers in affected states are to gather at labour houses, union secretariats, or designated public squares by 7:00 a.m. before embarking on organised processions through major streets in state capitals.
The NLC further instructed that the marches should culminate at key government institutions, including State Government Houses, State Houses of Assembly, or offices of the Head of Service, where formal memoranda outlining workers’ demands will be submitted.
The labour body warned that any state council chairperson who fails to comply with the directive would face immediate disciplinary action.
The Congress accused several state governments of ongoing violations of the minimum wage law, citing issues such as failure to implement consequential salary adjustments for senior workers, irregular payment of the approved wage, and the exclusion of local government employees, primary school teachers, and health workers from the new pay structure.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, the NLC noted that May Day, traditionally observed as a celebration of workers’ contributions and rights, would instead serve as a platform for demanding compliance with the law.
“Regrettably, several state governments have continued to violate the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. This constitutes not only a breach of the law but an assault on the dignity of Nigerian workers,” the statement read.
The union emphasised that May Day activities in non-compliant states would be limited strictly to street protests, with no indoor ceremonies or official receptions permitted.
“There shall be no May Day ceremonies inside government houses, banquet halls or any enclosed venue hosted by or in collaboration with defaulting state governments. Official receptions are hereby suspended,” the statement added.
The NLC reiterated that all processions must remain peaceful, organised, and resolute, underscoring that the directive is binding on all affected state councils.
