NLC orders nationwide rallies for May Day over minimum wage delay

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has directed workers nationwide to mark the 2026 May Day with street rallies over the non-implementation of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act in some states.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by the NLC General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, on Friday, April 3, 2026.

Ugboaja said the directive was necessary due to alleged violations of the law by some state governments.

Ugboaja said there would be no indoor ceremonies or official receptions in states where the new wage had not been fully implemented.

He stated: “Workers are to assemble at labour houses, union secretariats or public squares by 7:00 a.m. on May 1, 2026.

“From there, they are to embark on peaceful and organised street processions across state capitals.

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“The processions are to terminate at State Government Houses, Houses of Assembly, or offices of Heads of Service.”

He added that the NLC demands should be submitted at the final destinations of the processions.

Ugboaja stressed that the 2024 Minimum Wage Act was binding on all states and must be implemented without exception.

Ugboaja warned that any state council chairperson who failed to comply with the directive would face disciplinary action.

He said the action was aimed at pressing for full implementation of the wage law and related consequential adjustments.

He urged workers to remain peaceful, united and resolute in all activities marking the 2026 May Day celebration.