Workers set October strike over petrol price hike

Public servants belonging to the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) have issued a three-day warning strike notice to the Federal Government, set to commence on October 2, 2026, if the government fails to address urgent issues surrounding petrol prices, wage awards, and the implementation of a new national minimum wage.

The JNPSNC, comprising eight public sector unions, demands that the Federal Government reduce petrol prices to N500 per litre, announce a wage award, and begin negotiations for a minimum wage of at least N500,000 starting in 2027.

The council, led by Gbenga Olowoyo, national secretary and general secretary of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, warned that the deadline of September 30, 2026, remains non-negotiable. They emphasized that the economic hardship caused by high fuel costs is placing immense pressure on Nigerian workers, their families, and the general populace, making it increasingly difficult for them to lead normal and dignified lives.

The JNPSNC's warning comes after they submitted a letter to President Bola Tinubu on September 21, 2026, demanding a reduction in petrol prices, an immediate wage award, and the commencement of negotiations for a new minimum wage. The council stated that failure to address these issues would result in a three-day warning strike beginning on October 2, urging the President to address these critical concerns during his Independence Day address on September 30.