Federal workers under the Federal Workers Forum (FWF) have expressed full support for the nationwide protest scheduled for December 17, 2025, by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), describing it as “long overdue” and a “national assignment” crucial to addressing Nigeria’s worsening crises.

In a statement released Sunday and signed by FWF National Coordinator Comrade Andrew Emelieze, the forum said federal workers across the country are ready to participate, except those on essential duties.

“We welcome the call by the NLC for a nationwide protest on 17th December, 2025. We are ready and in full support of this protest, and we call for active participation by all federal workers nationwide except for those on essential duties,” Emelieze said.

The FWF criticized the government for failing in its fundamental responsibilities, highlighting insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges. “Nigeria is now like a state of nature, and uncertainty has been the hallmark of our being. Governance has been at the lowest ebb—irresponsible, insensitive, and mindless,” the statement read.

The forum stressed that the protest is not just a workers’ issue but a national duty. “We don’t know who is next to be kidnapped or killed. This protest is not for workers alone. Nigerians are called upon to massively participate. It should be taken as a national assignment and a duty for our collective survival,” Emelieze added.

FWF also condemned government indifference in the health sector, poor funding in education, low remuneration for federal workers, and the harsh economic realities facing ordinary citizens. The forum urged the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) to join the protest, emphasizing the need for labor unity.

In addition to supporting the protest, the FWF demanded that the Federal Government settle outstanding financial obligations, including three months of unpaid wage awards owed to federal workers since May 2023. The forum also proposed a weekly symbolic protest, suggesting workers wear black on Mondays to signify ongoing resistance.

Concluding on a note of solidarity and hope, Emelieze said, “Our condolences to all afflicted. We shall overcome.” The statement was co-endorsed by FWF Secretary General Comrade Ayo Ogundele and Mobilisation Officer Aliyu Ibrahim.