NLC Rivers Chapter Calls For Immediate Salary Payment Amid Growing Worker Frustration

Rivers State NLC Raises Alarm Over Unpaid Salaries

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State isn't holding back. In a powerful statement, they've condemned the non-payment of salaries for local government workers in the state since February. They've made it crystal clear that if the outstanding salaries aren't paid by the end of March, they'll have no choice but to withdraw essential services. This isn't just a warning—it's a wake-up call for the state government to prioritize the welfare of its workers.

At a press briefing held in Port Harcourt, the vibrant state capital, NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor didn't mince words. He expressed the union's mounting frustration over the ongoing salary delays. Picture this: workers haven’t seen a paycheck since February, and it’s creating an unbearable financial burden. Agwanwor emphasized that if the situation isn’t resolved by the deadline, the union will have no choice but to withdraw its members from local government and public sector services. It’s a bold move, but one that underscores the gravity of the situation.

A Deadline Set: Pay Up or Face Consequences

In his address, Agwanwor laid out the union's demands in no uncertain terms. "We demand that the salaries of all local government workers be paid on or before the end of March," he stated firmly. But that’s not all. He also called for the immediate implementation of the minimum wage across all local government areas in Rivers State. This isn't just about back pay—it's about ensuring that workers receive fair compensation for their hard work and dedication.

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Agwanwor made it clear that the state NLC is fully aligned with the national leadership of organized labor. He stressed that workers shouldn’t be the ones suffering in the midst of the current political turmoil. "The executive has also resolved that Rivers workers are not partisan and cannot suffer in the midst of all these crises," he added. It’s a powerful reminder that workers deserve better—they deserve stability, respect, and timely payment.

Financial Hardship Takes Its Toll

Local government workers in Rivers State have been hit hard. Since February, they haven’t received a single paycheck, and the financial strain is undeniable. Imagine trying to make ends meet without a steady income. It’s not just about bills—it’s about dignity, about being able to provide for your family and live with some semblance of security. Agwanwor painted a vivid picture of the hardship faced by these workers, emphasizing the urgent need for action.

The NLC Chairman reiterated the union’s demands, calling for the immediate payment of salaries to all local government workers. He also stressed the importance of implementing the minimum wage law at the local government level by the end of the month. "Workers’ salaries, most especially at the local government levels, have not been paid since February 2025 to date," he said. It’s a stark reminder of how long this issue has been dragging on, and how much damage it’s causing to the lives of workers and their families.

If these demands aren’t met, Agwanwor warned that the NLC will take further steps. This includes mobilizing workers and beginning the process of withdrawing services. It’s a last resort, but one that shows the union's commitment to standing up for its members. This isn't just about a labor dispute—it’s about justice, fairness, and the basic rights of workers.

In closing, Agwanwor called on the state government to prioritize the welfare of workers. He urged officials to ensure that workers aren’t negatively affected by the ongoing political crisis. It’s a plea for empathy, for understanding, and for action. The NLC isn’t backing down, and neither should the state government. The time for change is now, and the workers of Rivers State deserve nothing less.