By Paul Joseph
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed workers across the country to stage street rallies on May 1, 2026, in protest against the failure of some state governments to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act.
In a statement issued Friday in Abuja, NLC General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja said the directive would apply strictly to states where the new wage structure has not been enforced.
Titled “Observe 2026 May Day on the Streets of the National Minimum Wage Act has not been fully implemented in your state,” the statement made it clear that there would be no indoor celebrations or formal ceremonies in affected states.
According to the NLC, workers are expected to gather at labour houses, union offices, or designated public spaces by 7:00 a.m., before embarking on peaceful processions through state capitals.
The marches are expected to end at key government locations, including State Government Houses, Houses of Assembly, or offices of Heads of Service, where workers’ demands will be formally presented.
Ugboaja emphasized that the minimum wage law is binding on all states without exception, warning that any union leader who fails to comply with the directive risks disciplinary action.
The labour body said the move is aimed at mounting pressure on non-compliant state governments to implement the wage increase and related adjustments, while urging workers to remain peaceful, united, and resolute during the demonstrations.
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