Labour threatens crackdown on exploitation, wage violations in Nigeria By Daily Review Online Nigeria’s organised labour movement has accused government authorities and private employers of eroding workers’ rights, warning that exploitation, insecurity and rising poverty are making decent living conditions increasingly difficult for Nigerian workers. At the 2026 May Day celebration, leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress said workers across the country were facing mounting economic hardship, poor enforcement of labour laws and growing interference in union activities. The labour centres, led by Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, accused some state governments of failing to fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act despite improved revenues. They also alleged that some employers were pushing for the removal of protections meant to shield workers from abuse and unfair treatment. According to the union leaders, attacks on the rights of workers to organise, associate freely and bargain collectively have continued across several sectors, while attempts to weaken union structures and impose rival leaderships threaten the independence of organised labour. They vowed to intensify engagements with both public and private employers, promising coordinated actions and sustained campaigns against anti-worker practices. Labour leaders also warned against policies and actions capable of fragmenting trade unions, insisting that unity remained essential in defending workers’ welfare and rights. The unions further stressed the need to strengthen institutions responsible for industrial relations and social dialogue, including reforms aimed at improving labour administration and ensuring fairness in the workplace