Organised labour in Nigeria has warned that it may embark on a nationwide shutdown if the worsening insecurity across the country is not urgently addressed by authorities.

The warning was jointly issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress during a briefing at the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.

According to the labour centres, the increasing wave of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and violent attacks has become a serious threat to the lives, productivity and welfare of Nigerian workers.

The unions stated that workers across different parts of the country are now living in fear, with many unable to travel safely, conduct business activities or carry out their daily responsibilities without the risk of attack.

Labour leaders warned that Nigeria cannot achieve meaningful economic growth or improve the welfare of workers while insecurity continues to disrupt communities and businesses nationwide.

The NLC and TUC stressed that organised labour would not hesitate to consider industrial action if the government fails to demonstrate stronger commitment toward protecting lives and restoring national security.

They urged both federal and state governments to treat insecurity as a top national priority, warning that workers’ frustrations are steadily increasing as the security situation worsens.

According to the unions, continued silence or inadequate action from authorities could provoke a stronger response from organised labour in the near future.

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The labour unions also addressed reports suggesting that negotiations were ongoing regarding a proposed ₦100,000 national minimum wage.

The NLC and TUC dismissed the reports as inaccurate and misleading, particularly claims allegedly made by some state governors.

Labour officials clarified that no agreement had been reached on a ₦100,000 wage structure and insisted that the reports did not reflect the true state of discussions concerning workers’ salaries and welfare.

The unions maintained that issues relating to minimum wage negotiations remain under engagement and should not be misrepresented to the public.

The latest warning from organised labour comes at a time of growing concern over Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, with rising inflation, high living costs and insecurity continuing to affect millions of citizens and workers nationwide.

Observers believe the labour movement’s threat of nationwide action could place additional pressure on government authorities to accelerate efforts aimed at improving both national security and economic conditions.