The Nigeria Labour Congress has condemned the rising economic hardship and insecurity in the country, saying government policies have continued to push millions of Nigerians deeper into poverty.
In a Sallah message released on Wednesday ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the union said workers and low-income citizens were suffering heavily as a result of economic reforms it described as anti-people policies. The statement, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, urged political leaders to reconsider policies that place profit above the welfare of citizens.
According to the union, governance should prioritise the protection of lives and the provision of basic needs such as food, housing, healthcare, education and decent employment opportunities.
The NLC stated that the spirit of Eid-el-Kabir, which symbolises sacrifice and obedience, should inspire leaders to reflect on the hardship Nigerians are currently facing.
“The working class and the poor are groaning under the burden of neoliberal policies,” the statement noted.
The labour body’s remarks come amid increasing criticism of the Federal Government’s economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalisation of the foreign exchange market. While government officials and international financial institutions have defended the measures as necessary for economic recovery, many Nigerians have struggled with rising inflation, high transportation costs and increasing food prices.
The union also blamed worsening insecurity on failures in governance, pointing to persistent cases of kidnapping, banditry, communal clashes and urban violence across the country.
“The growing insecurity threatening the nation’s survival is a clear sign that the current governance approach is failing,” the statement added.
The NLC further accused political leaders of asking citizens to endure hardship while public officials continue to live extravagantly without making sacrifices themselves.
It urged leaders to commit to building a country that works for ordinary Nigerians rather than a privileged few occupying public offices.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the union hinted at a stronger political stance, saying workers and vulnerable citizens would remember unfulfilled promises, the suppression of peaceful protests and policies that have worsened living conditions.
According to the labour body, the next election should serve as an opportunity for Nigerians to reject hunger, insecurity and exploitation through the ballot box.
The congress also encouraged citizens to use the Eid period not only for worship and celebration but also for political awareness, grassroots mobilisation and unity among oppressed groups.