The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has raised concerns over what it described as worsening economic hardship and insecurity affecting ordinary Nigerians across the country.
In a Sallah message released on Wednesday ahead of the Eid-el-Kabir celebration and signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the union said workers and vulnerable citizens were “bleeding” under the impact of neoliberal economic policies.
According to the NLC, millions of Nigerians are struggling with deepening poverty and rising living costs, urging political leaders to reflect on the human consequences of their policy decisions.
The labour body called on citizens to use the Eid period not only for prayers and celebration but also for political awareness, grassroots mobilisation, and unity among the working class and the poor.
Ajaero stressed that governance should prioritise people’s welfare over profit-driven policies, insisting that basic needs such as food, healthcare, education, housing and employment must be protected.
He said the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, which symbolises sacrifice and obedience, should also serve as a reminder of the struggles faced by Nigerian workers and the poor majority.
The union’s statement comes amid ongoing debates over economic reforms introduced by the Federal Government, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation, which authorities say are necessary for long-term stability and investment growth.
While international financial institutions have commended the reforms, they have also been linked to rising inflation, increased transportation costs and higher food prices across the country.
The NLC further linked Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, including banditry, kidnappings and communal clashes to what it described as governance failures.
It argued that the combination of economic hardship and insecurity has significantly worsened living conditions nationwide.
The labour union also accused political leaders of demanding sacrifices from citizens while failing to demonstrate accountability in public spending and governance practices.
According to the NLC, the current socio-economic situation requires urgent policy reforms that prioritise the welfare of the majority of Nigerians over elite interests.
It warned that workers, youths and other vulnerable groups would continue to hold leaders accountable, particularly as the country moves closer to the 2027 general elections.
The union said the coming election cycle could serve as a moment of political reckoning for citizens seeking change in leadership and governance direction.
