The Federation of Informal Workers’ Organisation of Nigeria (FIWON) has expressed its support for the warning strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and called upon the federal government to prioritize the establishment of essential social protection measures for workers.
In a statement released by FIWON’s General Secretary, Gbenga Komolafe, the organization acknowledged the extraordinary challenges faced by Nigerian workers since the removal of fuel subsidy by the federal government. It further highlighted how government policies and actions implemented since 2020 have exacerbated income inequality and adversely affected productive activities within both the formal and informal economy.
Mr. Komolafe elaborated on the negative consequences of currency redesign, fuel price hikes, and the significant devaluation of the naira, implemented by the government in 2023 alone. He also emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s palliative programs, intended to alleviate the impact of current realities, have inadvertently contributed to a rise in absolute poverty, heightened desperation, increased crime rates, and social vices.
FIWON expressed its solidarity with the NLC’s demand for an urgent review of wages to align with the prevailing economic conditions faced by civil servants. The organization also put forth recommendations, including the immediate adoption of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative to premium motor spirit and the prompt payment of salary arrears owed to ASUU members by the federal government.
Furthermore, FIWON advocated for the immediate implementation of free health coverage for children under five years old, pregnant women, and individuals aged 60 and above, as these vulnerable groups are currently excluded from basic health plans offered by most Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs).
The statement further emphasized the need for a thorough review of the Micro Pensions Plan for the Informal Sector, ensuring that the government provides partial funding for informal workers’ pension contributions. This measure aims to safeguard the financial well-being of informal workers during their retirement years.
Additionally, Mr. Komolafe highlighted the importance of introducing social pensions for the most vulnerable segments of society, particularly the elderly, the infirm, and individuals facing prolonged unemployment.
FIWON firmly believes that only through the implementation of a comprehensive social protection package, as outlined above, can the pervasive crisis of social insecurity, growing social anomie, and despair among the disadvantaged working masses in the informal sector be effectively addressed.
