Nigerians Labour Unions Begin Nationwide Strike

The nationwide strike was declared by the labour unions to compel the government to agree on a new minimum wage for workers and review the increase in the price of electricity for some consumers.

The industrial action comes after a series of unsuccessful negotiations involving both the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and federal government representatives at the tripartite committee meetings on the new minimum wage.

The government increased its proposed monthly minimum wage to $43 from the previous $41, while organized labour reduced its demand to $351 from $353. However, labour representatives said the government's offer was unacceptable, citing the high cost of living in the country.

Previously when the government had proposed a $39 minimum wage, labour unions swiftly rejected it as inadequate.

This article originally appeared on AllAfrica

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