Labour Declares War on Exploitation, Accuses Govt and Employers of Undermining Workers’ Rights

The Nigerian labour movement has declared war on exploitation, accusing the government and private sector employers of systematically undermining workers’ rights. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) made the declaration during the 2026 May Day celebration, which was marked by confrontation rather than festivity.

In a joint address, NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo stated that the worsening insecurity and deepening poverty in the country have made “decent work” increasingly unattainable for millions of Nigerians. They accused the government and employers of failing to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and interfering in union autonomy.

The labour leaders warned that the struggle against exploitation is far from over and vowed to intensify resistance through coordinated action, legal pressure, and renewed solidarity across the labour movement. They called on workers to stand together and unite in the face of adversity, emphasizing that their unity is their greatest weapon and solidarity their strongest shield.

The labour leaders also expressed concern about the fragmentation of the labour movement and the proliferation of unions within the same sectors, cautioning against actions that weaken solidarity. They called for the revitalization of social dialogue platforms and the reform of labour administration laws to create a more balanced and effective industrial relations environment.

The NLC and TUC have vowed to intensify engagement with employers to ensure that workers’ rights are protected and dignity is restored. They have also threatened to expose and confront those who consistently violate workers’ rights through a sustained campaign of accountability.

The labour movement’s declaration of war on exploitation comes amid rising concerns about the state of workers’ rights in Nigeria. The government’s failure to implement the National Minimum Wage Act and the private sector’s disregard for labour laws have been widely criticized

The labour leaders’ call for unity and solidarity is a clear message that Nigerian workers will no longer be silenced or exploited. The labour movement is determined to fight for the rights and dignity of workers, and it remains to be seen how the government and employers will respond to the challenge.