May Day 2026: NLC Orders Nationwide Protests Over Unpaid Minimum Wage in Nigeria
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed workers in states that have not fully implemented the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act to mark May Day 2026 with nationwide protests instead of traditional indoor celebrations.
The directive, issued on Friday, mandates affected workers to take to the streets in peaceful demonstrations, rejecting any official ceremonies organised by non-compliant state governments.
Why NLC Is Protesting on May Day 2026
According to the union, several state governments have failed to fully implement the new minimum wage law signed by Bola Tinubu on July 29, 2024. The law increased the minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000.
However, the NLC says rising inflation has significantly reduced the value of the new wage, making it difficult for workers to afford basic needs such as food, housing, and education.
Labour leaders argue that the ₦70,000 wage is no longer sufficient, with many workers describing it as inadequate amid Nigeria’s current economic challenges.
Workers to Stage Peaceful Protests Nationwide
The NLC instructed all state councils in defaulting states to:
- Boycott indoor May Day celebrations
- Gather at labour houses, union offices, or public squares by 7:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026
- March through state capitals in organised processions
Each protest will end at key government offices, including:
- State Government Houses
- State Houses of Assembly
- Offices of the Head of Service
At these locations, workers will submit formal demands to authorities.
Strict Warning to State Labour Leaders
The union warned that any state council chairperson who fails to comply with the protest directive or opts for passive celebrations will face disciplinary action.
In a strong statement, the NLC declared:
“The 2024 Minimum Wage Act did not come through supplication. It came through struggle.”
The union emphasized that celebrating May Day indoors while workers’ rights are ignored would undermine the sacrifices made by labour movements.
Push for New Minimum Wage Increase
In March 2026, organised labour proposed a new minimum wage of ₦154,000, including a 120% salary adjustment to match inflation.
The NLC insists that urgent action is needed to address the rising cost of living and protect workers’ welfare.
Violations by State Governments
In a statement signed by General Secretary Emmanuel Ugboaja, the union accused several state governments of:
- Failing to implement wage increases fully
- Ignoring salary adjustments for senior workers
- Delaying or skipping payments
- Excluding local government workers, teachers, and health staff
The NLC described these actions as violations of the law and an attack on workers’ dignity.
Significance of May Day
International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, is celebrated globally every May 1 to honour workers and the labour movement.
This year, the NLC says the day will serve not only as a celebration but also as a moment of resistance and reflection on workers’ rights in Nigeria.