The National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has expressed concern over the worsening economic realities in the country, highlighting the difficulty of convincing some state governors to implement the N70,000 minimum wage.

Speaking at the 2024 delegates conference of the NLC Youth Council in Abuja, Ajaero lamented the soaring cost of living, including the price of a 50kg bag of rice reaching N105,000 and transportation costs exceeding N50,000. He described these as grim indicators of a society where the value of labour is undermined.

Economic Challenges

Ajaero criticized the economic inequality, stating:

“We live in a nation where the rich grow fatter on the sweat of the poor, where our youths struggle to find meaningful work, and where the value of labour is often trampled underfoot.”

Despite these challenges, he called for resilience and determination, emphasizing that it is the responsibility of Nigerians to build their nation.

Youth Empowerment Initiatives

Ajaero announced plans to establish youth executive councils in all state NLC councils. These platforms aim to address youth-specific issues and enhance their involvement in the trade union movement.

The conference, themed “Youth and the New World of Work: Imperative of a New Social Contract,” underscored the need for youth to redefine fairness and justice in an evolving work environment.

Call to Action

Encouraging youths to take ownership of their future, Ajaero said:

“The future of the trade union movement and our nation rests on the resilience, courage, and vision of our youth. Stay focused, committed, and united in the pursuit of a better tomorrow.”

He reassured the youth of the NLC’s unwavering support, pledging to stand by them in their efforts to create a more equitable society.

The delegates conference reflects the NLC’s commitment to amplifying youth voices and addressing critical socio-economic issues amid Nigeria’s evolving labour landscape.