Organised labour has warned that it may embark on a nationwide shutdown if the worsening wave of terrorism, banditry and kidnappings across the country continues unchecked.
Naijaonpoint reports that the warning was issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) during a joint briefing at the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
The labour centres said the security crisis had become a direct threat to the safety, livelihoods and productivity of Nigerian workers.
According to the unions, workers across the country are increasingly bearing the burden of insecurity.
They said many Nigerians can no longer travel safely, conduct business or carry out daily activities without fear of attacks.
The labour leaders warned that Nigeria could not achieve meaningful economic growth or improve workers’ welfare while communities remain under siege from armed groups and criminal networks.
The NLC and TUC said organised labour would not rule out industrial action if the authorities failed to show stronger commitment to protecting lives and property.
They urged federal and state governments to prioritise security and economic stability.
The unions warned that failure to address workers’ growing concerns could trigger a stronger response from organised labour.
The labour centres also dismissed reports suggesting that discussions were ongoing on a proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage.
They described claims by some state governors as misleading.
NLC and TUC officials said the reports did not reflect the current state of engagements on workers’ welfare and remuneration.
They insisted that no agreement had been reached on such a figure.
