The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have threatened to embark on a nationwide industrial action if the Federal Government fails to address the worsening insecurity across the country.
The labour unions issued the warning during a joint media briefing held on the sidelines of the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, where labour leaders from around the world are gathered to discuss workers’ rights, employment policies and global labour issues.
Speaking at the briefing, leaders of the two major labour organisations expressed deep concern over the increasing wave of terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and violent attacks affecting several parts of Nigeria. They argued that the deteriorating security situation has not only endangered lives but has also negatively impacted economic activities and the welfare of workers nationwide.
The unions warned that if the government fails to take decisive action to halt the growing insecurity, organised labour may be left with no option but to shut down economic activities through a comprehensive nationwide strike.
According to the labour leaders, the persistent attacks on communities, schools and public institutions have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among Nigerians. They stressed that workers cannot continue to operate under conditions where their safety and that of their families are constantly under threat.
The NLC and TUC also used the opportunity to dismiss claims by some state governors suggesting that discussions were underway regarding the implementation of a proposed N100,000 minimum wage for workers.
The labour centres insisted that such claims do not accurately reflect the current state of negotiations and should not be presented as an agreed position. They maintained that discussions concerning workers’ welfare, salaries and living conditions remain ongoing and require sincerity from all parties involved.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over security challenges across the country. Recent incidents of kidnappings and attacks have heightened public anxiety, with the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State emerging as one of the latest cases to draw national attention.
Labour leaders emphasised that ensuring the safety of citizens is a fundamental responsibility of government and called for urgent measures to strengthen security operations, improve intelligence gathering and protect vulnerable communities.
As concerns over insecurity continue to mount, the threat of industrial action by organised labour adds further pressure on authorities to address one of the nation’s most pressing challenges.
Observers say the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether dialogue and government intervention can avert a nationwide strike and restore public confidence in the country’s security architecture.
