The labour union also condemned the inflated petrol prices by fuel marketers, accusing them of exploiting Nigerians amid deepening economic hardship.
In a statement released on Sunday after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the NLC described the current economic conditions as "anti-people," stating that many Nigerians are being driven into poverty by policies that disproportionately burden ordinary citizens.
It criticized the state governments that have yet to adopt the new wage structure, despite over 20 states already announcing its implementation. Some states have pledged to go above the N70,000 minimum, yet others have been slow to comply.
The NLC warned that state councils in non-compliant regions would initiate an indefinite strike beginning on December 1 if the new minimum wage remains unimplemented. "Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have," the communique read, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
In addition to its minimum wage stance, the NLC expressed concern over the high petrol prices, claiming that fuel marketers are artificially inflating the cost far above the actual market value.
"It observed that there may be a gang-up against Nigerians by fat cats in the industry as the current price of the product is significantly higher than the real market price," the communique stated, referencing the recent tension between fuel marketers and the Dangote Group.
The NEC called for an "appropriate pricing" system and urged the swift reopening of Nigeria’s public refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.
According to the NLC, the delay in reviving these refineries has left Nigerians vulnerable to the monopoly of fuel importers and manipulators of the petroleum market.
As the deadline approaches, the NLC has established a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee, which will launch a nationwide campaign to raise awareness among workers and citizens on the importance of resisting "assaults on their dignity and rights."
With the economic strain on Nigerian households reaching new highs, the NLC’s ultimatum underscores the growing demand for accountability in state wage practices and transparency in fuel pricing, setting the stage for potential industrial action if these issues remain unaddressed.
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