The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has released an Independence Day message, demanding an immediate reduction in the price of petrol, a nationwide wage award for workers and the commencement of negotiations for a new national minimum wage. 

 

The Independence Day message by its President, Joe Ajaero, was released on Wednesday. 

 

The NLC laments that the real value of workers’ wages have been eroded by inflation, while rising petrol and transportation costs has pushed up the prices of food, school fees, rent and other necessities.

 

Beyond its immediate demands, the union also called for a reduction in the cost of governance and greater transparency, saying government must lead by example when workers are being asked to tighten their belts.