Niger State NLC Slams Inflation, Unpaid Wages, and Poor Labour Conditions on May Day

During the 2025 May Day celebration at the 123 Sports Complex in Minna, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Niger State voiced strong dissatisfaction with the economic and labour challenges facing workers. Led by Chairman Comrade Idrees AbdulKareem Lafene, the union condemned rising inflation, wage delays, and what it described as anti-worker policies by the state government.

Lafene expressed frustration over the unfulfilled promise of the ₦80,000 minimum wage. Despite commitments from the Niger State government, many employees—especially at the local government level—are still dealing with unpaid salaries and delayed gratuities. “The rising inflation continues to eat away at the value of our wages, making it even harder for workers to meet basic needs,” Lafene said. He added that repeated wage delays are endangering workers’ welfare and leaving families in economic distress.

The union also criticized the state’s failure to implement previously agreed promotions and salary step increases across both state and local government sectors. It demanded the full enforcement of the national pension scheme and a review of critical allowances such as hazard and medical stipends, particularly for frontline workers in healthcare and the judiciary.

Representing Governor Umaru Bago, Secretary to the State Government Alhaji Abubakar Usman responded to the concerns, assuring workers that the administration is taking steps to resolve the issues. He reiterated the government’s commitment to clearing backlogs and ensuring timely salary payments going forward.

Despite Governor Bago receiving the “Workers’ Hero Award” for labour reforms and introducing the ₦80,000 minimum wage, Lafene maintained that more must be done. He stressed that real recognition lies not in awards, but in honoring promises and addressing the outstanding financial obligations to workers.