Federal workers under the umbrella of the Federal Workers Forum (FWF) have threatened to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike over worsening insecurity, unpaid entitlements and what they described as government’s failure to improve workers’ welfare.
The forum also took a swipe at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), accusing both labour centres of failing to provide effective leadership at a critical time for Nigerian workers.
In a communiqué issued after an online meeting, the forum alleged that federal workers are facing severe economic hardship while insecurity continues to threaten lives across the country.
The statement, signed by the forum’s National Coordinator, Mr. Emelieze, and Secretary, Mr. Ayo Ogundele, said members overwhelmingly supported immediate industrial action if their grievances remain unresolved.
According to the group, the July 2024 minimum wage adjustment failed to meet workers’ expectations, claiming that only a flat ₦40,000 was added to salaries across all grade levels and that the amount was subsequently taxed.
The forum also accused the government of failing to implement key welfare promises made to workers.
It alleged that the proposed 40 per cent peculiar allowance, earlier announced to take effect from May 1, 2026, had not materialised, while other salary-related commitments remained outstanding.
The workers further complained about unpaid wage award arrears, promotion benefits and other allowances, describing the situation as unbearable.
“Federal workers are already getting used to forfeiting their promotion arrears, while some salaries and outstanding payments have virtually disappeared,” the communiqué stated.
The forum rejected proposals for a ₦100,000 minimum wage, describing it as inadequate in the face of rising inflation and the current cost of living.
It called for the payment of all outstanding arrears and the introduction of a realistic living wage for workers.
On security, the group expressed concern over increasing cases of kidnappings and violent attacks across the country, saying many workers now live in fear.
The forum urged the NLC and TUC to immediately engage the Federal Government to address both the economic hardship facing workers and the deteriorating security situation.
It also called on the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of all kidnap victims still being held across the country.
The group warned that unless urgent action is taken to address workers’ welfare and security concerns, federal employees may be forced to shut down government activities through an indefinite nationwide strike.
