NLC Rejects Government’s Claim Over Headquarters, Condemns NSITF Fund Diversion, Demands PENCOM Board Constitution

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, threatening to initiate industrial action if key demands are not met within seven working days. The union rejected what it described as a “false claim” by the government regarding ownership of the NLC’s national headquarters and expressed strong disapproval over the diversion of workers’ funds from the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

In a communiqué signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero following a Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, the Congress accused the Federal Government of violating statutory provisions governing workers’ welfare institutions. The CWC decried the alleged reclassification of 40% of workers’ contributions to the NSITF as federal revenue, calling it a "flagrant breach" of the fund's founding legislation.

The NLC also raised concerns over the continued delay in constituting the board of the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), which it said has created a governance vacuum in the critical sector.

“The NSITF is a trust fund meant for the benefit of Nigerian workers,” the statement read. “We view the diversion of these funds and moves to unilaterally amend the NSITF Act to strip workers of control as direct attacks on labour rights and international standards of tripartite governance.”

Additionally, the union denounced what it called cyber and media intimidation of trade union leaders, and criticized the government's alleged covert attempts to seize full control of NSITF operations.

Ajaero emphasized that the NLC would not stand by while workers’ rights and contributions are undermined. He issued a seven-day ultimatum for the Federal Government to:

1. Fully account for and return all diverted NSITF funds.
2. Properly constitute the PENCOM board in accordance with the law.
3. Provide a comprehensive report on the current status of pension funds.

Failure to meet these demands within the stipulated timeframe, the communiqué warns, will lead to the withdrawal of labour’s cooperation and potential nationwide industrial action.