The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has handed the Federal Government a four-week ultimatum to conclude all ongoing negotiations affecting the tertiary education sector or face nationwide industrial action.
NLC President Joe Ajaero issued the warning during an emergency press conference held in Abuja on Monday, following a closed-door meeting with unions representing staff in universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education.
Citing years of unmet agreements and chronic underfunding, Ajaero accused the government of neglecting the education sector, resulting in repeated strikes and instability across institutions of higher learning.
“We have decided to give the Federal Government four weeks to conclude all ongoing negotiations in the sector,” Ajaero declared. “If after that period there is no meaningful progress, the NLC will convene and take a nationwide action that will involve all workers and unions across the country.”
The NLC also pledged to collaborate more closely with education sector unions to push for lasting solutions to systemic challenges. As part of this renewed approach, the congress has established a framework to monitor implementation of pending agreements and advocate for sustainable funding.
“We are committed to ensuring that education in Nigeria receives adequate attention,” Ajaero said. “We insist on a minimum of 25 percent budgetary allocation to the education sector.”
The labour leader also called for an urgent review of wage structures and allowances for both academic and non-academic staff, arguing that current remuneration fails to reflect Nigeria’s economic realities.
“The welfare of workers in our tertiary institutions is critical to achieving quality education,” he added. “We cannot continue to rely on outdated wage systems and expect world-class outcomes.”
Ajaero concluded with a stern warning: “We will not fold our arms while our education system continues to deteriorate. If the government fails to act, we will mobilise all unions to demand justice and fairness.”
