Nigeria’s E-Hailing Drivers Set to Join Nationwide NLC Strike
Following a disagreement with the government over a new minimum wage, Nigeria’s two largest labor unions, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), have declared an indefinite strike set to begin today, June 3, 2024.
As a result, the Amalgamated Union of App-based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has instructed its members, including drivers for Bolt and Uber, to suspend their services.
In addition to demanding a new minimum wage, the strike also calls for reducing electricity tariffs from ₦225/KwH to ₦65/KwH and eliminating the electricity usage band categories.
Comrade Ayoade Ibrahim, AUATON’s General Secretary, believes that achieving the strike’s objectives will increase disposable income for Nigerians, resulting in more ride orders and other benefits.
This strike impacts e-hailing companies at a particularly challenging time, as they are already grappling with declining ride orders and revenues. Many Nigerians are opting for cheaper alternatives due to the harsh economic climate.
This move underscores the growing unrest among various labor sectors in the country, as workers unite to demand better working conditions, fair wages, and improved policies.
The unity of Nigeria’s e-hailing drivers with the broader labor movement highlights the interconnected nature of worker rights and the ongoing struggle for fair treatment across all professions. The hope remains that through constructive dialogue and negotiation, a resolution can be reached that addresses the drivers’ concerns and fosters a more equitable working environment.
