The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the new minimum wage to begin an indefinite strike starting December 1, 2024.

This directive follows the resolutions reached at the NLC’s recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held over the weekend.

In a statement, the NEC expressed “deep frustration” over the ongoing delays and outright refusals by certain state governments to enact the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. “This failure by certain governors and officials to uphold the law is both a legal and moral affront,” the NEC said. “Amidst rising economic challenges, workers are being denied their rightful wages, and this disregard for the law compromises the welfare of millions of Nigerian workers.”

As part of its response, the NEC resolved to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee, which will lead nationwide efforts to assess, mobilize, and educate workers and citizens on the importance of defending their rights and dignity. The NLC also plans to initiate industrial actions in all non-compliant states, stating that it will not relent until the minimum wage is fully implemented across Nigeria.

“To this end, all state councils where the National Minimum Wage has not been fully implemented by November 30, 2024, have been directed to begin a strike starting December 1, 2024,” the NLC stated. “Nigerian workers demand justice, and they will not stop until justice is served.”