The Nigeria Labour Congress has called for a unified retirement age of 65 years or 40 years of service across all civil service sectors, seeking to extend benefits currently enjoyed by teachers, health workers and judges to all public servants. NLC President Joe Ajaero made the demand during May Day celebrations at Abuja’s Eagle Square, arguing the move would ensure fairness and improve public sector efficiency.
Ajaero’s proposal comes amid growing concerns about Nigeria’s aging workforce and pension system sustainability. The current policy grants extended service years only to specific professions, creating what labour leaders describe as discriminatory conditions. The NLC contends standardized retirement parameters would boost morale while retaining experienced personnel across government agencies.
The demand forms part of broader workers’ rights advocacy by the labour union, which also continues pushing for full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage. Analysts suggest the retirement age proposal may face fiscal scrutiny, particularly regarding pension fund obligations and youth employment considerations. Government officials have yet to respond to the NLC’s latest request.
This year’s May Day observance highlighted persistent economic challenges facing Nigerian workers, including rising living costs and delayed salary payments in some states. The NLC used the occasion to reiterate calls for improved working conditions and better social safety nets, framing the retirement age proposal as both a worker welfare issue and public service enhancement strategy.
