The Nigerian economy faces a potential crisis commencing on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, as the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) prepares to initiate a Nationwide strike in response to the perceived adverse effects of the removal of the petrol subsidy. The NLC contends that this policy change has contributed to an elevated cost of living, prompting their call for action.
Last week, the Nigerian government was duly informed by the labour union of an impending warning strike.
Historically, labour strikes within the nation have been marked by the notable disruption of air, land, and sea transportation. However, preliminary indications from the National Labour Congress (NLC) suggest that the upcoming strike is poised to surpass previous actions in its scale and impact.
In light of the recent Vanguard report, it is worth noting that key sectors of the economy, along with 52 affiliated organisations of the NLC, have taken significant measures to fortify their strategies and galvanise their members in anticipation of the imminent two-day warning strike.
According to esteemed analysts, it has been postulated that the Nigerian economy stands at risk of incurring substantial financial losses amounting to trillions of naira, should the proposed strike come to fruition.
One of the crucial unions that holds significant influence over the economy is the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which exercises control over the distribution of petrol, serving as a vital nerve centre in this sector.
The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), the Private Telecommunications and Communications Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PTECSSAN), and the National Union of Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions Employees (NUBIFIE) hold significant influence over the junior staff in the financial sector.
In addition to the aforementioned organisations, it is worth noting the presence of several other prominent unions within Nigeria’s labour landscape. These include the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Association of Nigerian Aviation Professionals (ANAN), National Association of Air Pilots and Engineers (NAPE), National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees (NUFBTE), and The National Union of Chemical, Footwear, Rubber, Leather and Non-Metalic Products Employees (NUCFRANMPE), among others operating within the manufacturing sector.
Several unions have confirmed that they have received circulars from the National Labour Congress (NLC) regarding the ongoing strike.
In a display of procedural diligence, several individuals have expressed their intention to duly apprise their constituents on the forthcoming Monday, September 4, 2023.
The maritime workers’ union has officially acknowledged the receipt of the circular issued by the NLC (Nigeria Labour Congress). In response, they have expressed their commitment to fully adhere to the directives put forth by the Joe Ajaero-led labour union.
Several additional unions operating within the vital sectors of the economy have expressed their readiness to participate in the impending warning strike.
Source: Topnaji.com
