The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on journalists to intensify scrutiny of politicians and demand clarity on their plans to improve workers' welfare ahead of the 2027 general elections. The union emphasized that Nigeria needs a wage that adequately caters to a worker's basic needs, rather than a minimum wage that barely covers essential expenses.
Chris Onyeka, NLC's Assistant General Secretary, made this appeal on Thursday in Abuja during a goodwill message at the third congress of the Labour and Communication Association of Nigeria (LACAN). He highlighted the 2027 elections and negotiations for a new national minimum wage as crucial opportunities to address the economic hardships faced by workers.
Onyeka stressed that the minimum wage is not a handout but a payment for services rendered. He cautioned the government against implementing economic reforms that devalue workers' wages under the guise of economic stabilization. The NLC urges journalists to thoroughly examine the economic policies of political parties and seek specific promises on wages, job security, and social protection.
The proliferation of contract work and the rise of online gig jobs pose significant threats to workers' rights and the bargaining power of labour unions. Onyeka warned that technological advancements should not erode workers' rights, lead to underpayment, or deny them social protection.
Onyeka also called on LACAN to strengthen its role within the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), emphasizing that journalists need robust professional organizations to safeguard press freedom and enhance working conditions. He urged journalists to avoid spreading misinformation and prioritize the plight of vulnerable workers, including those on contract and low-wage earners.
The NLC's push for a living wage reflects broader concerns about the impact of economic policies on workers. Onyeka emphasized that economic reforms should improve citizens' lives, not exacerbate the struggles of workers and the underprivileged.
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 elections, the NLC's engagement with journalists and politicians underscores the critical need for a national dialogue on wages and workers' welfare. The union's advocacy aims to ensure that economic policies prioritize the needs of workers and vulnerable populations.
Key points
- The NLC is pushing for a living wage that adequately covers workers' basic needs.
- Journalists are urged to scrutinize politicians' economic policies and seek specific promises on wages and workers' rights.
- The rise of contract work and gig jobs poses significant threats to workers' rights and labour unions' bargaining power.
