The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to introduce wage relief and strengthen domestic energy supply measures as petrol prices rise to about ₦1,430 per litre in major cities.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, said the government should provide reasonable wage awards to workers to cushion the impact of higher fuel prices on households and prevent further deterioration in living standards.
Ajaero also urged the government to guarantee adequate crude oil supply to local refineries through naira-denominated transactions and increase the country’s petroleum storage capacity.
According to him, the measures are necessary to strengthen Nigeria’s ability to manage energy disruptions and reduce the wider economic impact of petrol price increases.
The NLC president warned that rising fuel costs could trigger increases in transportation fares, logistics expenses and the prices of essential goods and services, including food, rent and school fees.
He expressed concern that the latest increase came at a time when efforts to encourage petroleum marketers to align pump prices with international crude oil prices had reportedly begun producing results.
Ajaero said immediate intervention by the government would provide relief to workers while supporting domestic production, job creation and economic activity.
He added that stronger energy security and measures to protect household incomes could also contribute to addressing emerging security and economic challenges across the country.
