The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to hold a nationwide protest on 17 December over rising insecurity in the country, insisting that workers’ safety and citizens’ security remain top priorities. The announcement was made on Monday in Lagos after the NLC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
In a communiqué jointly signed by NLC President, Mr. Joe Ajaero, and Acting General Secretary, Mr. Benson Upah, the NEC said the protest was prompted by the recent abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of school staff. The communiqué said the NEC resolved to mobilise all NLC affiliates and state councils for the action, explaining that the protest aims to compel the Federal Government to urgently address worsening security challenges.
It urged citizens to “join hands with workers in demanding a safer nation,” and criticised the withdrawal of security personnel from the affected school before the attack. It also described the rise in attacks on schools as alarming.
The NEC condemned the kidnapping and killing that occurred during the Kebbi incident and demanded a full investigation and prosecution of those responsible for the security lapses. It further called on the Federal Government to take immediate steps to secure all schools, especially those in remote and vulnerable communities.
The communiqué noted that the NEC also deliberated on key national and industrial issues, including the crisis in the tertiary education sector, the ongoing strike by the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), and the revival of the Labour–Civil Society Coalition (LASCO).
It expressed concern over the state of the Labour Party and urged members to realign the party with working-class principles, ideology, and integrity.
The NEC warned that failure by the Federal Government to address insecurity and other pressing issues could trigger escalated industrial actions across sectors, particularly in health and education. It added that workers’ safety and welfare remained central to the NLC’s advocacy, and encouraged Nigerians to support the call for a safer, more stable nation.
The communiqué stressed that the planned 17 December protest would be peaceful but resolute, saying it was intended to push the government to act decisively. It further urged state governments and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect vulnerable communities, particularly schools and students, warning that continued neglect could undermine national stability.
The NEC reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to defending workers’ rights, improving living and working conditions, and supporting initiatives that promote social justice and equitable development across Nigeria.
