The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) kicked off its annual Rain School today in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. This year’s theme, “Workers’ Education and Future of Work,” aims to equip trade union leaders and members with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of the labor market.

In his opening remarks, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero emphasized the importance of proactively shaping the future of work to ensure improved working conditions and protect workers’ rights and livelihoods. “The nature and character of work is changing rapidly. As the world of work is influenced and shaped by certain objective forces, its undercurrents in turn shape the world, with deep implications for humanity,” Ajaero stated.

The 2024 Rain School will feature a series of discussions, workshops, and training sessions designed to deepen the participants’ understanding of current trends, such as digital literacy, the gig economy, and the impact of remote work. The goal is to equip the trade union leaders with the tools needed to effectively advocate for a future of work that is equitable and inclusive.

“We must seek to shape and influence the character and structure of work to make it work better for us and our members,” Ajaero emphasized. “Rain School provides an invaluable platform for us to come together, share insights, and develop strategies that will enable us to protect workers’ rights and livelihoods in the face of these rapid changes.”

The NLC has also reiterated its demand for a national minimum wage of N250,000 (two hundred and fifty thousand Naira) to ensure a decent standard of living for workers, as the current wage levels are no longer adequate to address the rising cost of living.

The 2024 Rain School will continue until July 19, providing a crucial opportunity for NLC members to collectively strategize and prepare for the future of work in Nigeria.