The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the federal government to withdraw the Tax Reform Bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive process involving key stakeholders across the nation.
In its New Year statement on Tuesday, the NLC expressed concern over the rising cost of living and urged the government to prioritize policies that directly improve citizen welfare, including access to food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security.
Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, described the proposed tax bills as contentious, particularly in northern Nigeria, where critics argue the measures could hinder economic growth. He stressed the importance of creating a comprehensive national tax policy developed through collaboration with all sectors to ensure transparency and broad acceptance.
The union urged the government to adopt a people-centered approach to governance, stating that addressing basic needs is fundamental to effective leadership.
“As we step into the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress extends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across our great nation. The challenges of survival we have faced must not hold us down. Instead, let us find inner strength to build a collective resolve to drive Nigeria out of underdevelopment,” the statement read.
The NLC also criticized the increasing use of force in interactions with unions, warning that such tactics could jeopardize industrial harmony. The union reaffirmed its commitment to social dialogue, urging the government to respect agreements with trade unions to maintain peace in the labour sector.
Ajaero underscored the union’s commitment to advocating for fair wages, stating that the NLC would negotiate for an upward review of salaries to address economic hardships faced by workers. He also stressed the need for compliance with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, which took effect this year.
The NLC plans to host a national dialogue in Ibadan this January to foster collaboration on a new tax framework aimed at national development. The union called for the immediate withdrawal of the current tax bills to enable the inclusion of all relevant stakeholders in drafting a policy that supports economic growth and public welfare.
“No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation,” the statement noted. “It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward.”
The union expressed hope for constructive engagement with social partners and reiterated its commitment to workers’ rights and better governance.
The NLC’s message ended with a rallying call for unity and a shared commitment to building an inclusive, prosperous Nigeria. “As we move into 2025, we urge the federal government to prioritize industrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions,” it said.
The union remains steadfast in its advocacy for worker welfare and effective governance, emphasizing that sustainable development can only be achieved through the collective resolve of all Nigerians.
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