Paragraph 1: The Nigeria Labour Congress’s Call for Inclusive Tax Reform
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the country’s largest umbrella organization for trade unions, has voiced strong concerns regarding the Tax Reform Bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The NLC contends that the proposed bills, particularly contentious in northern Nigeria, lack adequate inclusivity and could potentially hinder economic growth. They have called for the withdrawal of the bills and advocate for a more collaborative approach involving crucial national stakeholders in the tax reform process. The NLC emphasizes the importance of transparent and participatory policy-making to ensure that any new tax framework enjoys broad acceptance and contributes to national development. This call for greater inclusivity underscores the NLC’s commitment to representing the interests of workers and citizens in shaping economic policy.
Paragraph 2: Prioritizing Citizen Welfare and Addressing the Rising Cost of Living
In its New Year message, the NLC urged the government to prioritize policies that directly address the rising cost of living and improve the welfare of Nigerian citizens. The union highlighted key areas requiring urgent attention, including access to food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security. These are fundamental necessities that impact the daily lives of Nigerians and, in the NLC’s view, constitute the bedrock of effective governance. The NLC emphasized that improving the well-being of the populace should be at the forefront of government policy, reflecting a deep concern for the social and economic challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians. This call for prioritizing citizen welfare underscores the NLC’s role as a champion for the rights and needs of the working class and the broader citizenry.
Paragraph 3: Advocating for Wage Increases and Compliance with Minimum Wage Act
The NLC has underscored its commitment to championing the economic well-being of workers by advocating for an upward wage review. Recognizing the impact of rising living costs on workers’ livelihoods, the NLC plans to engage the government in negotiations aimed at ensuring fair wage adjustments. Furthermore, the union insists on strict compliance with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act across all levels of government, highlighting its commitment to protecting the legal rights of workers and ensuring they receive a fair minimum wage. This emphasis on wage increases and compliance reflects the NLC’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the economic security of Nigerian workers.
Paragraph 4: Concerns Over the Use of Force and the Importance of Social Dialogue
The NLC has expressed serious concerns about the increasing use of force in interactions with unions, warning that such tactics threaten to disrupt industrial harmony. The union advocates for a more constructive approach based on social dialogue and respect for agreements with trade unions. This emphasis on peaceful negotiation and adherence to agreements underscores the NLC’s belief in the importance of respectful dialogue in resolving labor disputes. They view the use of force as counterproductive and damaging to the relationship between the government, employers, and workers. The NLC’s stance reflects its commitment to promoting a stable and harmonious labor environment.
Paragraph 5: The NLC’s Vision for a Collaborative Approach to Tax Reform and National Development
In its pursuit of a more inclusive and equitable tax system, the NLC is organizing a national dialogue in Ibadan, Nigeria in January 2025. This dialogue aims to bring together key national stakeholders, fostering collaboration and consensus-building in the development of a new tax framework. The NLC envisions a tax system that is not only effective in generating revenue but also promotes national development and enjoys widespread acceptance. This initiative highlights the NLC’s proactive approach to policy-making, emphasizing the importance of collective input and shared ownership in shaping the nation’s economic future.
Paragraph 6: The NLC’s Commitment to Workers’ Rights and a Prosperous Nigeria
The NLC has reaffirmed its dedication to advocating for workers’ rights and ensuring that governance reflects the needs of all citizens. The union believes that the challenges facing Nigeria can be overcome through unity, collective resolve, and a focus on sustainable development. The NLC calls on all stakeholders – government, employers, and workers – to work together to build a more inclusive and prosperous nation. This call to action reflects the NLC’s belief in the power of collective action and its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Nigerian workers and building a better future for all.
