Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Abuja, Nigeria — The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans for a nationwide protest on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, urging the federal government to take urgent action against escalating insecurity, a surge in school kidnappings, and other socio‑economic challenges confronting the country. The planned mass action comes amid growing public frustration over violent attacks, abductions of schoolchildren, and perceived lapses in government protection of citizens.
In a communique issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Lagos, the labour centre expressed deep alarm over the “deteriorating security situation” across Nigeria, singling out the abduction of 24 girls from a boarding school in Kebbi State in November 2025 as a stark example of how children and educational institutions are being targeted. The NLC described the incident — during which two school staff members were also killed — as “dastardly and criminal” and condemned the withdrawal of security personnel from the school shortly before the attack, which it said required thorough investigation and prosecution.
“The surge in kidnappings targeting schoolchildren has reached an alarming and unacceptable level,” the union said, warning that the safety of pupils, students and teachers across the country is under serious threat. The communique called on the federal government to accelerate measures to secure schools, especially those in remote or high‑risk areas, and to hold accountable those responsible for security lapses.
The protest notice directs all NLC affiliates and state councils to “fully mobilise” workers, unions and civil society partners for the demonstration, which is intended to put sustained pressure on authorities to prioritise public safety and strengthen protective measures for communities. In addition to insecurity and school kidnappings, the NLC resolution addresses broader governance concerns, including the deteriorating state of tertiary education, unresolved health sector strikes, and deepening economic hardship facing many Nigerians.
The NLC has repeatedly framed insecurity — particularly attacks on educational institutions and children — as not only a national security crisis but also a human rights issue that undermines the future of young Nigerians. Similar protests earlier in the year have drawn attention to the increasing boldness of criminal networks that operate with relative impunity in various parts of the country, exploiting gaps in intelligence, policing and community protection. Recent reports indicate that threats to school safety have prompted closures and heightened fear among parents and educators, intensifying calls for more comprehensive government action.
Labour leaders say the nationwide protest will be peaceful but resolute, aimed at compelling the government to acknowledge the gravity of the security crisis and to implement concrete strategies for reversing a trend that has left many communities vulnerable. The NLC also underscored that workers’ welfare and public safety are deeply intertwined, asserting that a secure environment is fundamental to economic productivity and social well‑being.
The protest, expected to draw wide participation from organised labour, civil society and other pro‑democracy groups, reflects a broader sentiment of disenchantment with the current pace of security responses. As the December 17 mobilisation approaches, authorities will be watching closely to gauge public response and the potential implications for national stability, civic engagement and future policy direction.
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