The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep concern over the worsening economic and security situation in the country, warning that rising insecurity and widespread poverty are pushing millions of Nigerians closer to a breaking point.
The warning was issued in Lagos by the President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, who described the current socio-economic climate as one marked by severe hardship, declining living standards, and growing uncertainty for workers and ordinary citizens across the country.
Ajaero said the combined effect of insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and weakening purchasing power has created an environment where survival has become increasingly difficult for many households. He noted that the situation has moved beyond economic discomfort to a point where livelihoods are now directly threatened.
According to him, insecurity remains one of the most serious challenges facing Nigeria today, as it continues to disrupt economic activities in both rural and urban areas. He explained that farming communities have been particularly affected, with many farmers unable to access their lands due to fear of attacks, thereby worsening food production and contributing to rising food prices.
He added that in several parts of the country, businesses have been forced to shut down or relocate due to insecurity, leading to job losses and reduced economic activity. The labour leader further stated that the displacement of families from their communities has placed additional pressure on already struggling urban centres, where access to basic services is limited.
Ajaero lamented that the psychological impact of insecurity has become a growing concern, as fear and uncertainty now influence daily life decisions for millions of Nigerians. He said many citizens can no longer move freely or engage in economic activities without fear of violence or disruption.
He also linked the rising poverty levels to the deteriorating economic situation, noting that inflation has significantly reduced the real value of wages. According to him, while salaries remain largely stagnant, the cost of food, transportation, housing, and healthcare has continued to rise sharply, making it difficult for workers to meet basic needs.
The NLC president criticised what he described as a widening gap between official economic indicators and the lived realities of ordinary Nigerians. He argued that while government reports may suggest progress in certain areas, the daily experiences of citizens tell a different story of hardship and struggle.
He further expressed concern over multiple taxation and levies imposed on low income earners, including traders, artisans, and transport workers. Ajaero said many Nigerians are subjected to various forms of charges that further reduce their disposable income and deepen poverty levels.
He also highlighted challenges in the energy and transport sectors, noting that rising fuel costs and inadequate infrastructure continue to place additional burdens on citizens. According to him, the lack of affordable and reliable alternatives has made everyday living more expensive and stressful for the average Nigerian.
Ajaero pointed out that the absence of effective social safety nets has worsened the situation, leaving many vulnerable groups without adequate support. He stressed that workers and informal sector operators are bearing the highest burden of the current economic hardship.
On labour conditions, he raised concerns about what he described as increasing pressure on workers in both public and private sectors. He called for improved enforcement of labour laws to protect workers from exploitation, unsafe working environments, and unfair treatment.
The labour leader also reaffirmed the importance of civic space, stating that the right to peaceful expression and protest must be protected in a democratic society. He said that workers must be allowed to express grievances when conditions become unbearable, especially in situations where livelihoods are under threat.
Ajaero warned that the current level of hardship has reached a critical stage, where urgent and decisive action is required from all levels of government. He stated that insecurity and poverty are no longer separate issues but interconnected challenges that are affecting every aspect of national life.
He called for the adoption of people centred policies that prioritise the welfare and security of citizens. According to him, addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts involving government institutions, employers, labour unions, and other stakeholders.
The NLC president emphasised that Nigerian workers remain committed to national development, but stressed that such commitment can only be sustained in an environment where citizens are safe and able to earn a decent living.
He further urged authorities to intensify efforts to address insecurity across the country, particularly in regions affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence. He noted that restoring safety is essential for reviving agriculture, trade, and industrial productivity.
Ajaero concluded by warning that if urgent measures are not taken, the continued deterioration of living conditions could lead to deeper social and economic instability. He said the growing hardship, if left unaddressed, risks pushing more Nigerians into extreme poverty and further weakening national cohesion.
