Labour Sounds Red Alert Over Insecurity, Poverty
Workers Face Growing Danger Across Nigeria
NIGERIA’S two major labour centres, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have warned that worsening insecurity is pushing the country’s workforce toward a breaking point.
Speaking at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, labour leaders said workers across several sectors are increasingly exposed to violence, kidnappings and attacks while attempting to carry out their duties.
The unions maintained that protecting workers must become a national priority if Nigeria hopes to achieve meaningful economic progress.
Violence Undermining Decent Work
According to labour officials, insecurity has evolved into a direct threat to employment, productivity and national development.
They argued that workers in agriculture, education, healthcare and other critical sectors are among the worst affected, with many unable to perform their jobs safely.
The labour movement described the situation as a severe challenge to the concept of decent work, stressing that employment opportunities mean little when citizens cannot safely travel to workplaces or carry out their responsibilities.
They noted that several communities have experienced disruptions due to criminal activities, forcing residents to abandon economic and social activities.
Nearly 2,000 Deaths Raise Fresh Concerns
The NLC and TUC pointed to reports suggesting that close to 2,000 Nigerians were killed during the first three months of 2026.
They said the figures reflect the scale of the security crisis and underscore the urgent need for coordinated government intervention.
The labour leaders also highlighted the humanitarian impact of ongoing violence, including the displacement of millions of citizens and the destruction of livelihoods in affected communities.
For organised labour, these developments represent both a security emergency and a labour rights issue.
Poverty and Inflation Add to Workers’ Burden
Beyond security challenges, the unions expressed concern about worsening economic hardship.
They argued that inflation has significantly reduced the value of wages, leaving many workers struggling to meet basic needs despite remaining employed.
The labour leaders criticised what they described as a disconnect between official economic narratives and the realities experienced by ordinary Nigerians.
According to them, workers continue to bear the burden of rising living costs without corresponding improvements in earnings or social protection.
Political Class Put on Notice
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, the labour movement says it will closely scrutinise candidates seeking public office.
The unions revealed plans to present a comprehensive list of demands covering security, workers’ welfare, education, healthcare and economic reforms.
They stressed that organised labour’s support would be based on concrete commitments rather than political rhetoric.
The labour leaders concluded that the future of Nigeria’s workforce depends not only on economic policies but also on the government’s ability to guarantee safety, dignity and opportunities for all citizens.
