Talks between the federal government and organized labour ended without agreement in Abuja, with both sides expected to return to negotiations the following Tuesday.
In a joint statement dated October 22, 2026, the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress said they had presented their demands but alleged that the government’s delegation lacked the mandate and preparation needed to make substantive commitments.
The unions’ requests include a reduction in petrol prices to 2024 levels, fresh negotiations on the national minimum wage, implementation of agreed tax relief and resolution of outstanding welfare issues involving health workers and public service employees. They also cited demands relating to peculiar allowances, wage awards and hazard allowances.
According to the statement signed by NLC acting general secretary Benson Upah, the labour minister requested an adjournment to allow additional ministers and agency heads to attend the next meeting.
The unions said they remained open to dialogue but would consult their governing bodies on further steps if the next round failed to produce meaningful progress. Affiliates, state councils and civil society allies were advised to prepare for possible action while workers were urged to remain calm.
No strike date was announced in the statement. The federal government’s account of the meeting was not included in the supplied material.
