Tinubu Engages Labour Leaders in Midnight Meeting Over Planned National Protest

December 17, 2025

President Tinubu on Tuesday night held a closed-door meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the State House, Abuja, as efforts intensified to avert a proposed nationwide protest by organised labour over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity.

Prime Business Africa gathered that the meeting, which stretched late into the night, was convened amid rising concerns that the protest scheduled for Wednesday could escalate industrial and social tensions across the country.

The labour delegation was led by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, while President Tinubu was joined by the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

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According to sources at the meeting, discussions centred on labour’s grievances over the deteriorating security situation nationwide, including rising cases of kidnapping, banditry and attacks on workers and commuters.

Speaking briefly to journalists after the meeting, Ajaero said the engagement was consultative, adding that labour leaders would review the president’s submissions internally before taking a final decision on whether to proceed with or suspend the planned protest.

He declined to confirm if the protest had been called off, noting that the NLC’s National Executive Council would deliberate further and communicate its position to affiliates nationwide.

Prime Business Africa understands that the NLC had earlier directed its state councils and affiliate unions to mobilise members for peaceful demonstrations to draw attention to insecurity and demand stronger government action.

The late-night talks underscore the federal government’s renewed push for dialogue over confrontation, as authorities seek to prevent escalation into mass protests or an indefinite strike that could further strain the economy.

A final decision by labour on the proposed protest is expected later on Wednesday.

 

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Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

Amanze Chinonye

Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

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Minimum Wage Decision Expected as Nigerian Labour Leaders Await President's Response ABUJA, NIGERIA – The discussions on the new minimum wage between the Federal Government and Organized Labour are anticipated to conclude today, with labour leaders keenly awaiting President Bola Tinubu's verdict on their N250,000 proposal. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) had set a Monday deadline for finalizing the new minimum wage talks. Last Friday, the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage concluded its meetings where the Federal Government and the Organized Private Sector agreed on N62,000, while Labour demanded N250,000. However, the Nigeria Governors Forum declared that any minimum wage exceeding N60,000 would be unsustainable. A labour leader who spoke anonymously on Sunday stated, "We have submitted the report to the president and are waiting for him to make his decision. That is the most important thing and that is what we are all waiting for." The labour leaders, including NLC President Joe Ajaero, are currently attending a labour conference organized by the International Labour Organisation in Geneva, Switzerland. The leadership plans to hold a National Executive Council meeting upon their return, where a decision on a potential strike will be made based on the president's feedback. "We must come back from Geneva first before we can hold a NEC meeting. We are also trying to be careful so the government won't say Labour is inciting citizens against it. We are waiting for the president's decision," added another top NLC official. The labour unions, comprising the NLC and TUC, recently embarked on a two-day nationwide strike to demand a new minimum wage and the reversal of the electricity tariff hike. The strike was suspended for five days after a commitment was made with the Federal Government to resume negotiations and establish a new minimum wage within a week. Following a six-hour meeting between labour leaders and the National Assembly in Abuja, President Tinubu directed the finance minister, Wale Edun, to present the cost implications of a new minimum wage within two days. The finance minister, alongside the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Atiku Bagudu, presented the cost implications at the Presidential Villa on Thursday. The president is currently reviewing the proposal and is expected to make an official announcement soon. When asked about the Monday ultimatum, a source within the NLC said, "We have sent a report to the committee and are expecting the president to act on it. We will hold a National Executive Council meeting regarding the ultimatum when we return from Geneva. It is very important for us to be there, but right now, we are patiently waiting for the decision of Mr President." Organized Labour's recent actions underscore the urgency and importance of establishing a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers. The outcome of President Tinubu's decision will be crucial in determining the next steps for both the government and the labour unions. Related News: Atiku claims to have saved Tinubu's political career Debating the appropriate wage for workers Labour criticizes governors for minimum wage stance The labour leaders and the nation await the president's decision, which will significantly impact the economic and social landscape of Nigeria.

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