The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) plans a two-day warning strike against the economic challenges intensified by the Federal Government’s subsidy removal. Key stakeholders, including the banking industry, civil society groups, and various worker unions, back this movement.
The National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE) confirmed their involvement, signaling a potential halt in the nation’s financial operations. The union emphasized the urgency of highlighting Nigeria’s economic distress and criticized the government’s undue involvement in union activities.
NUBIFIE’s senior leaders are staunchly aligned with the NLC’s stance, emphasizing the importance of collective action during such critical times.
Similarly, the United Action Front of Civil Society and the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria support the strike, pointing out the government’s decisions that have adversely affected citizens.
Regional labor unions, particularly from Abia and Kogi states, are also gearing up for action, sharing their grievances against local administrative decisions.
In response, the Federal Government, through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Bako Lalong, appealed to the NLC to rethink its decision, stressing their endeavors to mitigate the fallout from the subsidy removal. However, the NLC’s refusal to attend a peace meeting called by the Minister suggests the strike is likely to proceed.
This imminent strike highlights the pervasive dissatisfaction among Nigerians facing economic challenges, revealing a significant rift between the populace and the government’s policies. The nation watches closely as events between the NLC and the government unfold.
