Nigeria: Labor unions plan to stage nationwide strike and protests, Aug. 2 /update 1

Event

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) plan to stage a nationwide strike with related protests on Aug. 2; the duration of the action remains unclear. The unions are denouncing recent policies implemented by the government, such as the removal of fuel subsidies. The NLC plans to protest at Unity Fountain in Abuja from 07:00 Aug. 2. Related protests elsewhere are likely, particularly in urban centers such as Lagos, and near fuel-linked companies, government buildings, and NLC and TUC offices.

Unless averted, the action is likely to cause disruptions to transport, government services, business operations, healthcare, and other sectors; airport operations may also be impacted. Protests are likely to prompt increased security and transport disruptions near the protest sites. Clashes with security forces remain possible if participants are overly disruptive and security forces attempt to disperse them.

Context

The removal of fuel subsidies, announced by President Bola Tinubu during his inauguration on May 29, initially caused a substantial fuel price hike that led to an overall increase impacting food and energy prices amid already high inflation. The NLC suspended a strike scheduled for June 7 following a meeting with the government.

Advice

Confirm all appointments and travel arrangements, including flights, until the action concludes. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Heed instructions from security services.