Nigeria’s organised labour has raised fresh concerns over the deepening socio-economic crisis in the country, declaring that workers bear brunt of failed governance amid rising insecurity, inflation, and declining living standards.
In a strongly worded message marking the Eid al-Kabir celebration, the Nigeria Labour Congress said millions of Nigerians, particularly workers and low-income earners, are facing severe hardship despite continued productivity and resilience.
The statement, signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, painted a grim picture of the nation’s socio-economic realities, warning that governance failures have pushed the burden of economic survival onto ordinary citizens.
Workers bear brunt of failed governance amid economic hardship
According to the union, the current economic situation reflects systemic challenges that have left the working class disproportionately affected. The NLC stressed that while governance is expected to improve citizens’ welfare, the reverse appears to be the case in Nigeria.
Ajaero stated that workers bear brunt of failed governance, noting that rising inflation, high food prices, and shrinking purchasing power have made it increasingly difficult for families to meet basic needs.
He criticised what he described as a widening gap between the political elite and the masses, arguing that economic policies have not translated into improved living conditions for the average Nigerian.
“The working class and the poor have been sacrificed in the face of economic mismanagement and inequality,” the statement noted, calling for urgent corrective measures.
Sallah message underscores inequality, social responsibility
While extending Sallah greetings to Muslims and Nigerians at large, the labour body emphasised that the essence of the festival—sacrifice, compassion, and shared responsibility—should serve as a reminder for leaders to prioritise the welfare of citizens.
The NLC warned against a situation where celebrations are marked by excess among the privileged, while the majority struggle to survive.
According to the union, workers bear brunt of failed governance in a system where wealth distribution remains uneven and social safety nets are weak.
The Congress urged leaders to reflect on the true meaning of the season by implementing policies that promote inclusion, fairness, and economic justice.
Insecurity worsens national crisis
Beyond economic concerns, the NLC expressed alarm over the deteriorating security situation across the country. The union cited recent violent incidents, including bomb attacks in Maiduguri and persistent communal clashes in various regions.
It described the rising insecurity as both a governance and moral crisis, stressing that no political ambition or ideological agenda should justify the loss of human lives.
Ajaero warned that workers bear brunt of failed governance not only through economic hardship but also through exposure to insecurity that disrupts livelihoods and threatens national stability.
The union called on all levels of government—from federal to local authorities—to take decisive action to restore peace and protect citizens.
Warning to political actors ahead of 2027 elections
The NLC also issued a caution to political stakeholders already positioning for the 2027 general elections, urging them to focus on governance rather than power struggles.
Ajaero warned that political ambitions must not overshadow the urgent need to address insecurity and economic distress, noting that a nation in crisis cannot sustain a healthy democratic process.
“As political actors prepare for future contests, they must remember that citizens’ welfare is paramount,” he said.
The union stressed that workers bear brunt of failed governance when leadership priorities are misaligned, adding that economic hardship and insecurity could discourage civic participation if not addressed.
Call for people-centred governance
The labour body advocated a shift toward governance that prioritises citizens’ well-being, economic inclusion, and social justice.
It emphasised that democracy must deliver tangible benefits, including job creation, stable prices, improved security, and access to basic services.
According to the NLC, only a system that ensures fairness and accountability can restore public trust and drive sustainable development.
The union further urged Nigerians to embrace unity across ethnic, religious, and political lines, noting that national recovery requires collective effort.
Outlook: urgent need for reforms
As economic pressures persist, analysts say the concerns raised by the NLC reflect broader public sentiment about governance and living conditions in Nigeria.
The recurring theme that workers bear brunt of failed governance highlights the need for comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing structural challenges in the economy and public sector management.
Experts suggest that targeted interventions—such as strengthening social protection programmes, improving wage policies, and stabilising prices—could help ease the burden on vulnerable populations.
The NLC’s message serves as both a critique and a call to action, urging leaders to realign governance with the needs of the people.
As Nigerians mark Eid al-Kabir, the union expressed hope that the season would inspire renewed commitment to justice, peace, and shared prosperity.
Ultimately, addressing the reality that workers bear brunt of failed governance will require sustained political will, inclusive policies, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.