NLC Orders Nationwide May Day Protests Over Unimplemented Minimum Wage in Defaulting States

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed workers across Nigeria to embark on peaceful protests on May 1, 2026, in states yet to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.

In a statement issued by the union’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, the NLC announced that traditional May Day celebrations would be suspended in non-compliant states, replacing them with organised demonstrations to demand enforcement of the law.

According to the directive, workers in affected states are to assemble at labour houses, union secretariats, or designated public locations from 7:00 a.m. before proceeding in coordinated marches through major streets within their respective state capitals.

The planned processions are expected to end at strategic government offices, including State Government Houses, State Houses of Assembly, and offices of the Head of Service, where workers will formally present their demands through written memoranda.

The Congress warned that any state council leadership that fails to comply with the directive would face immediate disciplinary measures, underscoring the seriousness of the action.

The NLC accused several state governments of violating the minimum wage law, citing persistent issues such as the non-implementation of consequential salary adjustments for senior workers, irregular payment of the approved wage, and the exclusion of key categories of workers including local government employees, primary school teachers, and health personnel from the new salary structure.

Describing the development as unacceptable, the union stressed that this year’s May Day would shift from celebration to resistance in affected states, serving as a platform to demand workers’ rights and full 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 noted.

The NLC further directed that May Day activities in defaulting states must be limited strictly to street protests, with no indoor events or official ceremonies allowed in collaboration with state authorities.

“There shall be no May Day ceremonies inside government houses, banquet halls, or any enclosed venues hosted by defaulting state governments. Official receptions are hereby suspended,” the statement added.

The labour body reiterated that all demonstrations must remain peaceful, orderly, and focused, emphasizing that the directive is binding on all affected state councils nationwide.