The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has demanded the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly. The NLC emphasized the importance of involving all key stakeholders in shaping these bills. The proposed tax reforms have faced criticism, particularly from northern regions, which view them as detrimental to growth.
In its New Year message, NLC President Joe Ajaero urged the government to prioritize the welfare of citizens and ensure governance delivers tangible benefits. He also reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to pursuing a wage review to address the rising cost of living. The message, titled “In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve,” conveyed optimism for the future while acknowledging the challenges Nigerians face.
“As we step into the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, extends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across our great nation. The challenges of survival we have faced as a people must not hold us down. Instead, let us find inner strength to build a collective resolve to drive Nigeria out of the morass of underdevelopment that has held it captive for far too long.”
Ajaero called on Nigerians to take ownership of the country’s progress, emphasizing that no external entity would solve its economic issues. “No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation. It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward.”
The NLC highlighted that the government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens, stating that “the welfare of the citizens remains the primary justification for the existence of any government.” It urged authorities to address critical areas like food security, healthcare, housing, education, and security, alongside ensuring citizens’ participation in governance decisions.
“Access to food and nutrition, better healthcare, quality housing, education, transportation and greater security of lives and properties, including the right to participate in decisions on how they are ruled, are the key expectations of the people and workers.”
The Congress stressed the need for transparent, honest, and inclusive policies devoid of favoritism or coercion. It advocated for governance built on social dialogue and inclusion, enabling stakeholders to actively contribute to nation-building. “To create a thriving, democratic nation, we need a system built on the tenets of social dialogue, allowing critical stakeholders to participate actively in nation-building.”
Reiterating its opposition to the current tax bills, the NLC called for their withdrawal to ensure that all national stakeholders are part of drafting tax reforms. “It is on this premise that we once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills before the National Assembly so that all key national stakeholders will be part of the process.”
Looking ahead, the NLC revealed plans to engage in national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025 to create a new tax framework that aligns with development goals. “We want to join hands in co-creating a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill its purpose of propelling national development which we believe is the main objective of government.”
The Congress also urged the federal government to foster industrial peace by respecting agreements with trade unions and refraining from violent interactions with workers. “The increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions must cease, as it is a recipe for industrial disharmony.”
Ajaero emphasized the NLC’s role as a partner in progress, committed to the nation’s development and the protection of workers’ rights. He called on governments at all levels to comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and committed to pushing for a wage review. “Our nation will become more productive when the incomes of workers are able to meet at least their basic needs, thus committing more to their work.”
The NLC expressed its determination to work with social partners to ensure decent working conditions, secure livelihoods, and improve citizens’ well-being. “Let us unite in our resolve to ensure a Nigeria where workers’ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are prioritized.”
In conclusion, the NLC reaffirmed its mission to transform Nigeria into a nation of progress and shared prosperity through collective effort and unwavering commitment.
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