Index to Nigerian Newspapers

Nigerian labour unions including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have raised alarms about the dire conditions faced by workers as they demand a review of the current minimum wage of N70,000, which they argue has become inadequate due to rising inflation. On May Day 2025, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured that both legislative and executive branches of government are committed to addressing workers' concerns. However, union leaders claim the situation has worsened since President Bola Tinubu's administration began, particularly following the removal of the petrol subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, leading to increased living costs and several protests.
Trade union representatives, such as Comrade Julius Laye from Bayelsa, criticized government policies, including new taxes and tariff hikes, contributing to hyperinflation and leaving workers struggling to afford basic needs, including healthcare. In Ebonyi State, leaders Prof. Oguguo Egwu and Comrade Igwe Chidi echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for an adjustment to the National Minimum Wage Act, which stipulates reviews every three years. They underlined that the hardships endured by workers are unprecedented and emphasized the importance of this year’s Workers Day theme, ‘Reclaiming a civic space amid economic hardship,’ which reflects the ongoing struggles of the Nigerian workforce.

Northern governors and traditional rulers have called for a six-month suspension of mining across the region, attributing worsening insecurity to illegal mining activities. They announced a plan to mobilize N228 billion for combating banditry, with each state contributing N1 billion monthly. This decision was made during a joint meeting aimed at enhancing security responses, following numerous school raids resulting in the kidnapping of over 500 individuals. President Bola Tinubu recently declared a nationwide security emergency and endorsed the establishment of state police, marking a shift in political opposition. The forum also highlighted the link between illegal mining and increased violence, pushing for an audit of mining licenses. The meeting underscored the importance of regional unity and sustainable financing in addressing these challenges, with leaders stressing the need for investments in infrastructure to facilitate economic growth in the North.

Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani emphasized the importance of unity among Northern elites to address the region's development challenges during a visit from the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) leadership. He stated that the North has significant human capital that can drive growth if effectively harnessed. Sani highlighted the need for skills acquisition and financial inclusion, noting many northerners lack access to banking services, which hampers their ability to participate in government programs. The ACF's upcoming 25th anniversary, aimed at promoting dialogue and collaboration, was discussed, with plans for an endowment fund to support community projects. The ACF seeks to build bridges with other regional groups and engage influential personalities to foster national cohesion.