The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has directed workers across the country to embark on street protests on May Day in states yet to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
The directive was contained in a statement signed by the NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja.
According to the union, there will be no indoor celebrations or official receptions in states still defaulting on the implementation of the new wage.
It instructed workers in affected states to assemble at labour houses, union secretariats or designated public squares by 7:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026, before proceeding on peaceful processions across state capitals.
The Congress added that each procession must terminate at strategic government locations, including State Government Houses, State Houses of Assembly or offices of the Head of Service, where formal memoranda of demands would be submitted.
The NLC warned that any state council chairperson who fails to comply with the directive would face immediate disciplinary action.
The statement noted that several state governments have continued to violate the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, including failure to implement consequential adjustments for senior workers, irregular payment of the new wage and non-extension of the wage to local government workers, primary school teachers and health workers.
“May Day, the international day of the working class, has always been a day of reflection on workers’ rights and the celebration of our collective efforts in building the wealth of nations.
“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 read.
The NLC further declared that May Day activities in defaulting states would strictly be limited to street protests.
“There shall be no May Day ceremonies inside government houses, banquet halls or any enclosed venue hosted by or in collaboration with defaulting state governments. Official receptions are hereby suspended.
“All workers shall take to the streets in peaceful, organised and resolute processions. This directive is binding on all affected state councils,” it added.
