Public servants issue a strike notice over high fuel prices, demanding wage awards and lower petrol costs.
Public servants across Nigeria are preparing for a nationwide industrial action starting in October following soaring fuel costs. The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council issued the warning after the Federal Government failed to address their core economic demands.
The labor coalition, representing eight major public sector unions, wants petrol prices slashed and immediate financial relief introduced. Workers across the country face severe economic hardship as inflation continues to pressure household budgets, according to information published by NIGERIA.
Gbenga Olowoyo, the National Secretary of the JNPSNC, confirmed that the September 30 deadline remains completely sacrosanct. The labor group expects President Bola Tinubu to address these critical issues directly or face immediate labor disruptions from October 2, 2026.
JNPSNC demands petrol price reduction to N500 per litre
The labor council insists that the current pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, ranging from N1,450 to N2,500 per litre, is completely unacceptable. Workers demand that the Federal Government bring the cost down to N500 per litre using intervention funds.
To achieve this price reduction, the council suggests providing support for landing costs and oil operators. Additionally, selling crude oil directly to the Dangote Refinery and modular refineries would boost domestic refining capacity and lower consumer costs.
Public sector unions mobilize members for three day warning strike
Eight prominent public sector bodies make up the JNPSNC coalition, including the Nigerian Civil Service Union and the Medical and Health Workers Union. Other participating groups are the Association of Senior Civil Servants and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives.
Members have been fully mobilized across all states to participate in the upcoming three day warning strike. This protest action aims to compel President Bola Tinubu to introduce immediate relief measures to cushion crushing national hardship.
Workers push for immediate wage award and new minimum wage
Beyond fuel price reductions, public servants are demanding the immediate announcement of an official wage award. This financial buffer is necessary to help vulnerable workers cope with prevailing harsh economic conditions across the country.
The labor coalition also wants a tripartite committee established urgently. This committee will facilitate negotiations for a new national minimum wage expected to take effect from 2027, preventing any administrative delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Nigerian public servants planning a strike in October?
Public servants under the JNPSNC are planning a strike because of the crushing economic hardship caused by soaring petrol prices ranging up to N2,500 per litre.
What are the main demands of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council?
The council demands a reduction in petrol prices to N500 per litre, the immediate approval of a wage award, and the early setup of a committee for the 2027 minimum wage.
When will the three day warning strike begin?
The three day warning strike called by Nigerian public sector unions is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 2, 2026, following the expiration of the September 30 deadline.
Who leads the public sector labor coalition issuing the ultimatum?
The ultimatum was issued by Gbenga Olowoyo, who serves as the National Secretary of the JNPSNC and General Secretary of the Nigeria Civil Service Union.
