The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Niger State chapter, has called on the state government to urgently address the worsening economic conditions, delayed wage payments, and anti-labour policies that continue to affect workers across the state.

During the 2025 May Day celebration held at the 123 Sports Complex in Minna, NLC Chairman Comrade Idrees AbdulKareem Lafene, condemned the escalating inflation and the delayed payment of workers’ salaries, which have exacerbated financial hardship for many families.

He pointed out that despite the state’s pledge to implement the ₦80,000 minimum wage, many workers have not seen the full impact of the adjustment. Lafene noted that workers, particularly in local governments, were still struggling with unpaid arrears and delayed gratuity payments, which have left them financially vulnerable.

“The rising inflation continues to eat away at the value of our wages, making it even harder for workers to meet basic needs. Wage delays have become a persistent issue, and we can no longer afford to ignore the impacts of these delays on our lives and families,” Lafene said, calling on the government to prioritise the payment of workers’ entitlements.

The NLC also expressed concerns about policies they claim are detrimental to workers’ welfare, highlighting the lack of action on previously agreed promotions and step increments for workers in both state and local government sectors.

The congress also demanded the full implementation of the national pension policy and an increase in allowances, such as hazard and medical allowances, to reflect the risks and challenges workers face in sensitive sectors like healthcare and the judiciary.

In his response, Alhaji Abubakar Usman, Secretary to the State Government, who represented Governor Umaru Bago at the event, assured the workers that the government was committed to addressing their concerns.

He emphasised that the state government was already working on implementing measures to improve workers’ welfare, including efforts to clear salary arrears and ensure the timely payment of workers’ wages in the future.

Governor Bago was given the “Workers’ Hero Award” in recognition of his administration’s commitment to labour-government relations, as well as his work in implementing the ₦80,000 minimum wage and efforts to ensure job security for workers.

Despite the recognition, Lafene stressed that much more should be done, specifically in addressing outstanding arrears and the challenges that workers face.

“This day is about reflecting on past struggles and renewing our commitment to a better future,” he said, urging the government to follow through on its promises.

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