Nigeria’s organised labour has raised alarm over what it describes as a defining moment for the country, citing ongoing strikes in the education sector and worsening socio-economic conditions as signs of deepening national challenges.

Speaking at the May Day rally in Abuja, Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, said the country must urgently confront its realities or risk further decline.

“May Day is not just another date on the calendar; it is a reaffirmation of our collective strength and a renewed opportunity to build a fairer nation,” the labour leaders declared.

They highlighted the critical role of workers in national development, stressing that no sector can function effectively without them. Particular concern was raised over disruptions in universities caused by strikes by non-teaching staff unions, including NASU and SSANU.

The unions urged the federal government to fast-track negotiations and address lingering issues such as withheld salaries and unpaid allowances.

“The non-teaching unions are integral members of the university system. Government must act swiftly to resolve these issues,” they said, linking the crisis to broader neglect of education and research.

Beyond education, labour painted a grim picture of the country’s security and economic landscape. Rising insecurity, they warned, has made everyday life increasingly dangerous, undermining livelihoods and discouraging investment.

“It is impossible to create meaningful employment where lives are under constant threat,” they noted, calling for security to be treated as a top national priority.

The labour leaders also criticised what they described as governance lapses and declining public trust in institutions, pointing to controversial policy decisions and perceived inconsistencies in the justice system.

On the economy, they rejected claims of improvement, arguing that official data does not reflect the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians. They called for a shift toward a production-driven economy focused on job creation, local industry, and fair wages.

Energy challenges also came under scrutiny, with the unions decrying persistent power shortages and rising fuel costs. They called for reforms that prioritise public interest and investment in the sector.

Despite the challenges, organised labour expressed resolve, emphasizing unity and collective action as key to driving change.

“Our unity is our greatest weapon, our solidarity our strongest shield,” they said.

Looking ahead, the unions signaled plans to play a more active role in the 2027 general elections, urging workers to participate in the democratic process and support candidates committed to workers’ welfare.

They also announced plans to renegotiate the national minimum wage by July 2026 and called for immediate measures to ease economic hardship.

In a renewed push against corruption, labour unveiled a campaign tagged “Stop the Bleeding,” aimed at addressing illicit financial flows and misuse of public resources.

“The change we seek will not come from elsewhere; it must come from us,” the leaders said, urging Nigerians to take collective responsibility for the nation’s future.

“Our nation can be saved—but only by us, only together, and only now.