The Nigeria Labour Congress has given the Federal Government a seven-day ultimatum to refund allegedly diverted workers’ funds from the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, threatening nationwide industrial action if their demands are not met.
The ultimatum was issued in a communiqué released following the NLC Central Working Committee meeting held Wednesday, August 13, 2025, in Abuja, under the leadership of NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero.
In addition to demanding the refund of the allegedly misappropriated NSITF funds, the labor union called for the immediate constitution of the Governing Board of the National Pension Commission, which has remained vacant.
The NLC accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of neglecting workers’ welfare and undermining pension administration, demanding immediate action to address what they described as the theft of workers’ resources.
“Enough is enough. Nigerian workers will not stand idly by while their sweat and future are stolen,” the communiqué declared, reflecting the union’s frustration with the government’s handling of workers’ affairs.
The Central Working Committee meeting extensively deliberated on various issues affecting Nigerian workers, the trade union movement, and broader national concerns that impact the labor force.
The strike threat comes amid ongoing tensions between organized labor and the federal government over various policy decisions and their impact on workers’ welfare across the country.
In a separate development announced during the same meeting, the NLC dissolved its Edo State leadership, though the union did not disclose the specific reasons behind this decision.
The seven-day countdown begins immediately, putting pressure on the Tinubu administration to respond to labor’s demands or face potential nationwide work stoppages that could significantly disrupt economic activities.
This latest development adds to the growing list of grievances between organized labor and the current administration, as workers continue to express dissatisfaction with government policies affecting their welfare and working conditions.
The NLC’s firm stance suggests the union is prepared to mobilize its members for industrial action if the government fails to address their concerns within the stipulated timeframe.
