The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed support for organized labour’s decision to embark on a nationwide strike in protest of the federal government’s refusal to meet minimum wage demands.
In a statement on Sunday, NANS President Pedro Obi said the labour union’s demands for a higher minimum wage are “legitimate and reasonable.” The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had previously announced an indefinite nationwide strike starting June 3, 2024, over the government’s proposal to raise the minimum wage only to N60,000.
Obi argued that the current economic realities have significantly eroded the purchasing power of the average Nigerian worker, with inflation, rising cost of living, and naira devaluation making it increasingly difficult for families to meet basic needs. He stated that an improved minimum wage would translate to better living conditions for millions of Nigerian families, thereby fostering a more conducive environment for students to focus on their education and personal development.
NANS called on all students, civil society groups, and citizens to support the labour movement in reaching a mutually beneficial agreement on the minimum wage with the government. The statement emphasized that a prompt resolution to this issue is vital for maintaining industrial harmony and ensuring uninterrupted functioning of educational institutions.