Rivers NLC decries FG’s harsh economic policies

– Demands urgent action on pensions, wages, transport reform

Mkpoikana Udoma

Port Harcourt — The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Rivers State Chapter, has raised alarm over what it described as “crippling economic policies” by the Federal Government that have worsened inflation and pushed Nigerian workers, particularly in the oil-rich state, into deeper hardship.

Addressing workers during the 2025 May Day celebration, Rivers NLC Chairman, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, called for immediate intervention in key areas such as pension arrears, gratuity payments, stalled promotions, transport sector reforms, and broader wage-related concerns.

Agwanwor highlighted the irony in the Federal Government’s recent approval of a N70,000 minimum wage while simultaneously introducing steep electricity tariffs, telecom rate hikes, and rising costs of goods and services—all exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidy.

“Today’s celebration calls for sober reflection as we ruminate on the various policies of government that have brought untold economic hardship to citizens, with Nigerian workers being the hardest hit.

“While we are thankful for the Seventy Thousand Naira minimum wage, we are also burdened by multiple taxes and price hikes without corresponding measures to cushion the impact on the workforce,” he added.

One of the most pressing concerns raised by the NLC is the backlog of unpaid pensions and gratuities to retirees in Rivers State. According to Agwanwor, many pensioners who served the state for decades now live in penury, unable to afford basic necessities.

“As dedicated leaders of workers, we will not fold our hands and watch our heroes die in suffering. We are demanding the immediate payment of pension arrears, implementation of the N32,000 minimum wage for federal pensioners in the state, and prompt disbursement of gratuity and death benefits,” he stressed.

The NLC also decried the delay in promotions and salary increments for civil servants, particularly in the polytechnic sector. Agwanwor demanded the implementation of the promotion for non-teaching staff, a long-standing issue that has yet to be resolved.

“These issues have lingered for far too long. We call on the relevant authorities to act without delay,” he said.

In a key business-focused appeal, the NLC called for regulation and support of app-based transport workers, noting their growing contribution to the local economy and risks they face in the line of duty.

“The government must leverage modern technology to regulate and protect e-hailing drivers. These workers face increasing risks of fare evasion, theft, and violence. Their contribution to the economy can no longer be ignored,” Agwanwor stated.

He urged authorities to invest in the sector and implement rider profiling to enhance safety and transparency in the app-based transportation industry.

Addressing the political instability in the state, Agwanwor criticized the suspension of elected state officials and called for the reinstatement of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the House of Assembly.

“We appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to use his office to reinstate all democratically elected officials in Rivers State. Labour fought for democracy and will continue to defend it,” he declared.

Despite the grievances, the NLC chairman acknowledged the efforts of the Sole Administrator of the state for actions such as the recent payment of gratuities, release of 20 additional buses to ease transportation for civil servants, and salary payments for newly employed judiciary and health workers.

“We appreciate these steps, but our engagement must be based on transparency and legitimacy. The NLC is not party to any secret meetings or engagements without the knowledge of our national leadership,” Agwanwor clarified.

He further stressed the importance of a functional democratic government in enabling structured dialogue and support for labour unions. “Our expectation this year was that, under a democratically elected administration, affiliate unions would receive buses to support their operations. Unfortunately, that has not happened.”

The Rivers NLC reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with stakeholders and employers of labour for the advancement of workers’ welfare, while also demanding urgent reforms to mitigate the rising cost of living and restore dignity to the Nigerian workforce.