May Day 2026: NULGE Raises Alarm Over Insecurity, Poverty, Demands Urgent Action
As Nigeria marks the 2026 Workers’ Day, the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has raised serious concerns over worsening insecurity and deepening poverty across the country. The General Secretary of the union, Comrade Gambo Isa, described this year’s May Day theme as a true reflection of the current realities facing Nigerian workers, noting that many are struggling to cope with rising economic hardship and safety concerns. Speaking during the celebration, Isa said insecurity and what he referred to as “object poverty” have become widespread, urging collective efforts to address the situation. According to him, while government interventions are acknowledged, they fall short of what is required to tackle the scale of the crisis. “We are not saying the government is not doing anything, but the efforts are not enough. The situation is getting out of hand, and there is a need for more decisive and intensified action to secure lives and property,” he said. On workers’ welfare, the NULGE scribe expressed dissatisfaction with the current wage structure, arguing that it does not reflect the prevailing economic realities. He maintained that what exists today cannot be considered a true minimum wage, as it is insufficient to meet the basic needs of workers. “We are advocating for a ‘take-home minimum wage’ that will genuinely sustain workers in line with current economic conditions,” Isa stated. He further highlighted the rising cost of essential commodities, citing the price of a bag of rice, which now ranges between ₦60,000 and ₦70,000, as a clear indication of the financial strain on workers. Despite the challenges, Isa commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and continued trust in the labour movement. He assured that the union remains committed to advocating for improved welfare and better working conditions for all workers in the country.
