JNPSNC Threatens Strike Over Petrol Prices and Wages

Public servants represented by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) have reaffirmed their ultimatum to the Federal Government, threatening a three-day warning strike beginning October 2 if their demands are not addressed. The council, which includes eight public sector unions, is calling for a reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to 500 naira per litre, an immediate wage award for workers, and the establishment of a tripartite committee to negotiate a new national minimum wage expected in 2027.

On September 21, the JNPSNC wrote to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu outlining these demands, proposing a minimum wage of no less than 500,000 naira from 2027. Gbenga Olowoyo, the National Secretary of the JNPSNC and General Secretary of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, stated that the deadline remains unchanged and urged the government to address these issues during the Independence anniversary speech.

The current petrol prices, ranging from 1,450 to 2,500 naira per litre, are deemed unacceptable by the council.