The Niger Delta Youth Congress (NDYC) has issued a stern rebuke against the ongoing nationwide strike orchestrated by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). In a strongly-worded statement, the NDYC asserts that instead of alleviating economic hardships, the strike action is exacerbating an already precarious situation in Nigeria.
While acknowledging the legitimate grievances of Nigerian workers concerning inadequate minimum wages, the NDYC maintains that such issues cannot be resolved through disruptive strikes that cripple essential services. The statement unequivocally states that the root causes of inflation and economic turmoil stem from systemic problems that necessitate comprehensive policy reforms, rather than temporary solutions or crippling industrial actions.
The NDYC has underscored that a holistic approach focused on economic reform, rather than merely increasing the minimum wage, is the key to achieving genuine and lasting improvement in the living conditions of Nigerians. The statement highlights specific areas that require attention, including addressing poor infrastructure, inconsistent government policies, corruption, and inefficiencies in governance.
Furthermore, the NDYC has deemed it highly irresponsible and detrimental for essential services workers, such as those in the electricity, airport, and transportation sectors, to participate in the strike. The statement argues that the cessation of these critical services only serves to exacerbate the suffering of the masses, leading to widespread hardship, economic stagnation, and the paralysis of commerce and mobility.
In a formal call to action, the NDYC has urged the NLC and TUC to reconsider their strategy immediately and terminate the national strike. According to the statement, the ongoing industrial action is causing economic regression, inflicting harm on small businesses, and subjecting Nigerians to untold hardships.
The NDYC has reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the well-being of all Nigerians and promoting sustainable solutions that foster economic stability and growth. It has called upon all stakeholders to prioritize the collective good of the nation and engage in meaningful discussions aimed at addressing the root causes of economic challenges through policy reforms.