NLC's Joe Ajaero Critiques Tinubu's Prosperity Claims

Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), criticized President Bola Tinubu's declaration of an "age of prosperity" during his Independence Day broadcast on October 1, 2026. Ajaero asserted that this promise has not translated into better living conditions for Nigerian workers, as the federal government has failed to engage organized labor adequately on policies affecting them.

He highlighted significant increases in the costs of petrol, food, transportation, and accommodation, which have diminished workers' purchasing power. Ajaero pointed out that despite claims of lower inflation, ordinary Nigerians continue to face high prices.

He challenged the government to demonstrate tangible benefits from its economic reforms, particularly following the removal of the petrol subsidy. Ajaero noted that organized labor accepted the N70,000 minimum wage based on assurances of government support, which have largely not been fulfilled.

He emphasized that future wage reviews should reflect changes in the cost of living.