TUC not part of FG talks on workers’ demands — NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) clarified that the Trade Union Congress (TUC) did not participate in their October 22 meeting with the Federal Government regarding workers' demands and the potential for industrial action. The clarification comes after media reports suggested both labor organizations were involved in the discussions, which concluded without an agreement and were postponed to October 27.

In a statement signed by the NLC's Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, the labor group confirmed that TUC representatives from the Joint Health Sector Unions and the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council attended the meeting. However, Upah emphasized that their presence alone did not constitute participation by the TUC.

The NLC's demands include addressing issues such as fuel prices, the minimum wage, and outstanding agreements affecting public-sector workers. Health workers have initiated strike preparations due to 19 months of unpaid allowances. The NLC presented a list of demands to the government on October 8, which included reducing petrol prices to 2024 levels, renegotiating the national minimum wage, implementing agreed tax relief measures, and resolving welfare issues for health workers and other public servants.

Despite the meeting, no concrete commitments were reached, with Upah stating that the government delegation lacked the authority to negotiate effectively on the demands. The government subsequently requested a postponement until October 27 to allow more officials to participate in subsequent discussions. The NLC is also seeking the implementation of the February 5, 2026, terms of settlement between the Joint Health Sector Unions and the Assembly of Healthcare Professionals, as well as addressing concerns raised by the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council regarding allowances, wage awards, and hazard allowances.