The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is raising serious concerns about alleged mismanagement within the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF). The union accuses the Federal Government of diverting a significant 40% of workers’ contributions into national revenue, a move they claim directly violates the agency’s founding statutes.
In a strongly worded statement, the NLC demands the NSITF account for and return all diverted funds within seven working days, starting Thursday, August 14, 2025. Failure to comply, the union warns, will result in a withdrawal of guaranteed industrial peace in the sector. As of the time of this report, the government has yet to respond to these allegations.
The NLC’s concerns were solidified in a communiqué released after a Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting. The union characterizes the alleged diversion as an ongoing assault on the social protection rights of Nigerian workers. They firmly assert that the NSITF belongs to the Nigerian working class and pledge to utilize all legitimate means to safeguard workers’ interests.
“The NSITF must account for and return all diverted funds within seven (7) working days from today,” the communiqué stated. “If at the end of these seven working days, nothing is done, NLC will no longer guarantee Industrial peace in the sector.”
The NLC also condemned what they described as a false claim by the new administration regarding ownership of the NLC National Headquarters, alleging cyber and media bullying of trade unions and leadership, and covert attempts to amend the NSITF Act. The union believes these amendments would disenfranchise workers and grant the government full control over the funds. The statement was signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero.
In addition to the NSITF concerns, the NLC is demanding the immediate constitution of the Pension Commission (PENCOM) board, within seven days, in full compliance with the law. They are also requesting a full status report of the funds be submitted to the NLC within the same timeframe.
The union voiced serious concerns about the lack of a governing board for the National Pension Commission, which they argue contravenes the PENCOM Act. They believe this absence of oversight allows the government to unilaterally control pension funds, increasing the risk of mismanagement and political interference.
“The CWC reiterates that pension funds are deferred wages, not state revenue, and demands the immediate constitution of the board in full compliance with the law,” the communiqué stated.
Finally, the NLC announced the ratification of the dissolution of its state administrative council in Edo State and the establishment of a caretaker committee. They emphasized their commitment to enforcing strict compliance with the NLC constitution in all state councils, with a zero-tolerance policy for indiscipline.