The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has criticised the Trade Union Congress (TUC) over its rejection of the Federal Government’s proposed N70,000 transport allowance for public service workers, following disagreements over the best way to address the rising cost of living.
The Federal Government announced the six-month transport allowance after a meeting with NLC leaders in Abuja. The payment is expected to begin in November 2026 and is intended to provide temporary financial relief to workers facing increasing transportation and living expenses.
However, the TUC rejected the arrangement, arguing that temporary allowances would not provide lasting solutions to workers’ economic challenges. The congress instead called for an immediate salary increase and the implementation of outstanding agreements with workers.
The TUC maintained that the Federal Government should review workers’ salaries without waiting for another minimum wage negotiation. It also proposed raising the salary of the lowest-paid federal worker from the current N70,000 minimum wage to N300,000, with appropriate adjustments to other salary levels.
The labour organisation explained that its opposition was partly based on concerns over the previous wage award agreed upon in October 2023. According to the TUC, the arrangement was not fully implemented, leaving some workers unpaid while others received irregular payments.
The congress also called for the implementation of outstanding agreements with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), particularly the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
Beyond salary increases, the TUC urged governments at all levels to introduce effective measures to reduce the cost of essential goods and services, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions, and improve the welfare of workers across different sectors.
The disagreement highlights differing positions within organised labour over how best to secure financial relief for Nigerian workers amid persistent economic pressures. While the N70,000 transport allowance is expected to offer temporary support to eligible public service workers, the TUC insists that permanent salary increases and the fulfilment of existing agreements are necessary to address workers’ concerns.
