Abuja, Nigeria – August 15, 2025
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government, accusing it of diverting 40% of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and threatening to shut down the country with an indefinite strike if the alleged diversion is not reversed within seven days.
In a statement released Friday, the NLC claimed it had obtained credible evidence showing that a substantial portion of the NSITF, earmarked for workers’ social security benefits, had been unlawfully reallocated. The union described the move as “an unforgivable breach of trust” that could cripple the fund’s capacity to compensate injured workers, retirees, and families of deceased employees.
The labour body reminded the government that the NSITF was created to protect Nigerian workers against work-related injuries, disabilities, and death, stressing that any tampering with its resources directly threatens workers’ welfare and security.
A formal demand letter has been sent to the Minister of Labour and Employment, urging an immediate refund and public explanation. “If by the seventh day there is no compliance, we will mobilise all our affiliates for a nationwide industrial action without further notice,” the NLC warned.
The Federal Government has yet to respond publicly to the allegations, but labour watchers warn the standoff could escalate into a major industrial crisis, especially as unions are already locked in disputes over wage increases and workplace reforms.
