It is no longer news that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) suspended day two of its scheduled two-day nationwide strike and protests against what it described as poverty, hunger and mass suffering inflicted on the citizens by the policies of the Federal Government under the watch of President Bola Tinubu. It extended the seven -day ultimatum given to government by another seven days – that is until March 13 – to implement all the earlier agreement of Oct. 2, 2023 and other demands presented in their letter at the nationwide protest.

In suspending the protests at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja late Tuesday evening, February 27, 2024, NLC issued a 17-point demand which it said if adequately implemented, would assist the nation to overcome the present crisis of survival in the short-run.

Below are details of the demands as contained in a communique signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and Acting General Secretary, Ismail Bello:

1. We suggest a reopening of land borders to allow food, cement and other essentials to come in.

2. Emergency measures to ensure food security around the country, including ensuring that farmlands are secured so that farmers can return to the land.

3. We propose an immediate removal of the collection of levies, fees, dues and tolls from petty traders across the nation by local and state governments.

4. Immediate implementation of the October 2, 2023, agreement reached with your government.

5. An immediate purchase and deployment of CNG/ electric buses across all states of the federation to be managed by stakeholders.

6. An immediate deployment of large numbers of CNG conversion kits to all states of the federation to grant the citizenry easier access to the conversion of their vehicles from PMS to CNG.

7. Composition of a team of relevant stakeholders to monitor and supervise all Federal Government’s intervention funds in the interest of Nigerian people.

8. The same arrangement is advocated at all levels to ensure that government interventions reach the poor and the vulnerable.

9. Reversal and suspension of further increases in school fees across the nation;

10. A drastic reduction and removal of import duties paid on essential drugs and medical consumables to relieve the current hardship being witnessed by the sick.

11. Direct all state governments to immediately pay all owed wages, wage awards, allowances, gratuities and pensions.

12. Cash Transfers to the vulnerable with a verifiable and inclusive social register to begin immediately.

13. An immediate tax holiday to all workers earning from N100,000 per month and below including a reduction in PAYE for all workers earning below N500,000/Month.

14. A removal of VAT on basic consumer items. Direct the purchase and use of Made in Nigeria goods and services to stimulate local production and save jobs.

15. Immediate reduction in the cost of governance in Nigeria at all levels to reflect the nation’s tight fiscal position.

16. Halt immediately the implementation of all IMF and World Bank policies in Nigeria. They have not only worked anywhere but have brought extreme hardship which imperils our nation’s security and undermines our sovereignty.

17. Speedy conclusion of the National Minimum Wage negotiation, ensuring that it approximates a living wage.

According to the communique, “Some of the foregoing proposals and recommendations are actually part of previously agreed Collective Bargaining Agreements, CBA, between organised labour and government at various times. “We believe that diligent implementation of these proposals, in consultation with social partners via the various processes of social dialogue will go a long way in recovering our economy from the precipice and repositioning Nigeria as a productive economy with capabilities for decent job creation, inclusive growth and the rule of law.

“Mr. President, the current economic hardship facing our nation requires bold and decisive action. As the leader of our great country, we urge you to heed the cries of the Nigerian people and take immediate steps to alleviate their suffering.

“The resilience and ingenuity of our workforce are invaluable assets that, if harnessed effectively, can propel Nigeria towards a future of prosperity and progress.

“While we look forward to your consideration of our proposals, please accept the renewed assurances of our highest esteem.”