The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has reaffirmed his commitment to the ongoing struggle for improved welfare for Nigerian workers, despite facing police interrogation on alleged terrorism charges.
Speaking at the Labour House in Abuja on Thursday, Ajaero vowed to continue fighting for the rights of workers, even at great personal risk.
Addressing members of the NLC and affiliate unions, Ajaero stated, “The Labour movement is worth dying for because of its patriotism and commitment. The labour movement is one of the biggest pan-Nigerian organizations, and our dedication to this cause, from colonial times through the military era, remains unshakable.”
Ajaero, who is no stranger to the intimidation of labour unions by authorities, emphasized that the NLC is more patriotic than any other organization in Nigeria and will not be deterred by such tactics. “You can’t do this job we are doing without this type of hazard. It’s expected,” he said, addressing the challenges faced by union leaders.
He also expressed disappointment that both federal and state governments have yet to begin implementing the ₦70,000 minimum wage, despite it being agreed upon. Ajaero announced that the NLC’s next major effort will be pushing the government to enforce the new wage standard for workers. “We are out to continue the struggle. We have secured the minimum wage, but it has not been implemented. So we have to press for its implementation as soon as possible,” Ajaero declared.
He concluded by reaffirming the NLC’s unwavering focus on improving the welfare of Nigerian workers, thanking the members and supporters for their solidarity. “Anything that will make the welfare of the Nigerian worker worthwhile, we will be involved in it. We will not be distracted,” Ajaero assured the gathered crowd.
