NLC Suffers Unprecedented Intimidation In 2024, Says Joe Ajaero

NLC Suffers Unprecedented Intimidation In 2024, Says Joe Ajaero

In a powerful statement made on Monday, December 3, 2024, Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), revealed that the union experienced its most turbulent year in 2024, facing unprecedented threats and intimidation. Speaking in Abuja, Ajaero emphasized that the attacks were aimed...READ MORE…

at weakening the NLC, but despite these challenges, the organization has remained resilient.

Ajaero described the year as one of the greatest periods of turbulence in the NLC’s history. He shared that the union was subjected to invasions and ransackings, alongside the highest levels of threats and intimidation. However, he insisted that these challenges have only made the NLC stronger and more determined to fulfill its core mission: protecting and advancing the rights of Nigerian workers.

“We have emerged stronger, more resilient, and better positioned to deliver on the expectations of Nigerian workers and the people,” Ajaero declared, reaffirming that protecting workers’ rights is the NLC’s primary responsibility. He further stated that any actions deviating from this mission would amount to failure.

In a related statement, Vanessa Phala, the country director of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), called for unity among organized unions to address the growing challenges faced by workers. She stressed the importance of engaging governments to find solutions, especially in light of the rising cost of living, which has dampened the impact of the newly negotiated minimum wage.

Phala urged the NLC to focus on identifying priorities and engaging in meaningful policy discussions with the government to build a stronger social contract for Nigeria’s future.