By Nworisa Michael
The Nigeria Labour Congress has instructed workers across the country to embark on peaceful protests on May 1, 2026, in states that have yet to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
The directive was conveyed in a statement signed by the union’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, who stated that traditional May Day celebrations would be suspended in states that fail to comply with the wage law.
According to the NLC, workers in affected states are to assemble at labour houses, union offices, or designated public locations by 7:00 a.m., after which they will proceed in organised marches through major streets in state capitals. The processions are expected to end at key government institutions such as State Government Houses, State Houses of Assembly, or offices of the Head of Service, where formal demands will be presented.
The labour body warned that any state council leadership that fails to implement the directive would face disciplinary measures.
The NLC accused several state governments of breaching the minimum wage law, citing issues including non-implementation of salary adjustments for senior workers, irregular payment of the approved wage, and exclusion of categories such as local government workers, primary school teachers, and healthcare personnel from the new structure.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, the Congress noted that this year’s May Day would shift from celebration to advocacy, serving as a platform to demand full compliance with the law.
It further clarified that in non-compliant states, all May Day activities would be limited strictly to public demonstrations, with no indoor ceremonies or official receptions allowed in collaboration with government authorities.
The NLC emphasized that all protests must remain peaceful, orderly, and focused, stressing that the directive is binding on all affected state councils.
