(DDM) — The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans for a nationwide protest to demand urgent government intervention over worsening insecurity affecting Nigerian workers and citizens across the country.
The declaration was made on Monday, December 15, 2025, in Abuja, following an emergency meeting of the NLC National Executive Council, where labour leaders expressed deep concern over escalating violence and economic hardship.
According to the NLC, the protest is a response to persistent insecurity that has continued to endanger lives, disrupt livelihoods, and cripple productivity in both urban and rural areas.
The labour union stated that workers across sectors are increasingly exposed to kidnappings, armed attacks, banditry, and communal violence while commuting to workplaces or carrying out official duties.
NLC leaders noted that insecurity has become a direct threat to national stability, as fear and uncertainty now dominate daily life for millions of Nigerians.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the Congress accused the government of failing to provide adequate protection for citizens despite repeated assurances and policy declarations.
The union stressed that insecurity has also worsened the economic burden on workers, with many forced to spend more on transportation, relocation, and private security arrangements.
Labour leaders warned that without immediate and decisive action, the situation could further erode confidence in governance and deepen public frustration.
The NLC said the planned protest would involve workers across federal, state, and private institutions, emphasizing that it would be peaceful but firm in its demands.
The Congress called on the Federal Government to deploy more effective security strategies, improve intelligence coordination, and address the root causes of violence, including unemployment and poverty.
It also urged state governments to take responsibility for local security challenges rather than relying solely on federal agencies.
Historically, the Nigeria Labour Congress has played a central role in national advocacy beyond wage negotiations, often mobilising mass action on issues of governance, fuel pricing, and social justice.
Past nationwide protests led by the NLC have drawn significant public participation and forced policy reconsiderations by successive governments.
Security experts have warned that persistent attacks on highways, farms, and workplaces are discouraging investment and weakening Nigeria’s already fragile economy.
The NLC argued that no meaningful economic growth can occur in an atmosphere of fear, where workers are afraid to report to duty or travel for legitimate business.
Civil society groups have expressed support for the protest, describing it as a necessary step to compel government accountability.
However, some government officials have cautioned against actions that could disrupt economic activities, urging dialogue instead.
The NLC maintained that dialogue has been exhausted, insisting that concrete action, not promises, is now required.
As the protest date approaches, security agencies have been placed on alert, while labour unions across states are mobilising members.
The planned demonstration is expected to test the government’s response to mounting public pressure over insecurity.
For many Nigerians, the NLC’s action reflects growing desperation and a collective demand for safety, stability, and dignity in everyday life.