NLC Urges FG To Cushion Petrol Price Increase, Calls For Wage Award

17th August, 2026 | News

NLC Raises Alarm Over Rising Petrol Prices, Calls for Urgent Government Action

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the Federal Government to take immediate measures to ease the impact of rising petrol prices on workers and Nigerians.

NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said petrol prices have climbed to about ₦1,430 per litre in major urban centres, with even higher prices recorded in areas where the product is less accessible.

According to Ajaero, rising fuel costs are driving up transportation fares and contributing to increases in food prices, rent, school fees and other essential expenses, further reducing workers’ purchasing power.

He called for measures including reasonable wage awards for workers, increased crude oil supply to local refineries in naira, and expanded national fuel storage capacity to strengthen Nigeria’s ability to respond to energy emergencies.

Ajaero also argued that as an oil-producing country with domestic refining capacity, Nigeria should have greater protection against international oil-market shocks.

He further criticised the continued importation of crude by local refineries, saying it undermines the purpose of developing domestic refining capacity.

The NLC president said labour would continue to demand action as petrol prices rise and living costs come under increasing pressure.