Organised labour has threatened a nationwide shutdown over the rising tide of terrorism, banditry and kidnappings across the country.
The warning was said to have been issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) during a joint briefing at the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
The security crisis, they said, had become a direct threat to the safety, livelihoods and productivity of Nigerian workers.
The unions say that insecurity is increasingly being borne by workers across the country.
Many Nigerians cannot travel safely, do business or go about their daily activities without fear of attacks, they said.
Labour leaders warned that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful economic growth or improved workers’ welfare if communities remain under siege by armed groups and criminal networks.
The NLC and TUC said organised labour would not discount industrial action should the authorities fail to show greater commitment to protecting lives and property.
They urged the federal and state governments to prioritize security and economic stability.
The unions said a failure to address growing concerns of workers could lead to a more powerful response from organised labour.
Labour kicks against N100,000 salary demand
The labour centres also debunked reports that talks were on-going on a proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage.
They said some statements from state governors were misleading.
NLC and TUC officials said the reports were not representative of the current state of engagements on workers’ welfare and remuneration.
They said no deal had been reached on such a sum.
