As Christmas approaches, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and workers have urged state governors to clear outstanding minimum wage arrears, pay salary differentials, and provide 13th-month bonuses to ease economic hardship.

Rising inflation and soaring food prices have strained household budgets, leaving many struggling to afford basic needs.

Despite the July approval of a N70,000 minimum wage, 14 states and the FCT have yet to implement it.

The NLC declared a strike earlier in December, but compliance was limited.

Some states, including Ogun, Delta, and Oyo, pledged partial payments or bonuses, while others deferred implementation to 2025.

Workers emphasized that settling arrears and bonuses would alleviate financial burdens during the festive season.

Meanwhile, traders lamented poor sales, citing reduced purchasing power and rising costs of essentials like rice and livestock