NLC Issues Fresh Warning to Tinubu Government Over Fuel Price, Minimum Wage

According to a report by DAILY POST on Friday 23 October 2026, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding a reduction in petrol prices and an upward review of the national minimum wage.

The labour union warned that it could embark on a nationwide strike from October 27, 2026, if the government fails to address its demands.

The NLC’s Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, announced the development in a statement released on Thursday after a meeting with the Minister of Labour.

The union is demanding a reduction in petrol prices, which it said had reached as high as ₦1,429 per litre in some areas; It is also calling for an increase in the current minimum wage of ₦70,000, arguing that workers’ earnings need to be reviewed amid rising living costs.

According to the statement, the meeting with the Federal Government ended without any concrete assurances that the demands would be addressed.

The congress expressed disappointment over the outcome, noting that none of the issues raised had been resolved.

Following the meeting, the NLC instructed its affiliate unions, state councils and civil society partners to commence mobilisation ahead of possible nationwide industrial action.

The union warned that failure by the government to respond before October 27 could result in a shutdown of economic activities across the country.

The proposed industrial action could affect several sectors, including transportation, public services and businesses, if workers participate on a large scale.

The latest ultimatum comes amid continuing concerns over petrol prices and the purchasing power of Nigerian workers.

With the deadline approaching, attention is now focused on whether the Federal Government will reach an agreement with organised labour to prevent a possible nationwide strike.

The NLC has maintained that concrete action on fuel prices and the minimum wage is necessary to resolve the dispute and avert industrial action.