The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has reiterated its demand for the Federal Government to withdraw the controversial tax bills currently before the National Assembly, citing concerns over the welfare of Nigerian workers.
In his New Year address to Nigerians, particularly workers, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized the need for the government to adopt policies based on transparency, inclusivity, and honesty in its dealings with the public.
The message, titled “In 2025, Hope Is in Our Collective Resolve,” stated: “As we enter the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress extends warm New Year greetings to all workers and citizens across our great nation. The challenges we face should not hold us back; instead, let them inspire us to unite and build the collective strength needed to lift Nigeria out of the grip of underdevelopment that has constrained us for so long.
“No external force will free us from the economic hardships we face. Only through our collective determination and effort can we drive Nigeria forward.
“We must unite to find the strength to build this resolve across the country. This is our civic duty—a responsibility we must embrace with unwavering commitment.
“We call on the government at all levels to ensure that governance results in tangible benefits for the people. The welfare of citizens is the core reason for any government’s existence.
“People’s expectations include access to food, better healthcare, quality housing, education, transportation, and greater security. Moreover, citizens must have a say in how they are governed. Policies must therefore reflect transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, free from chicanery, nepotism, and forceful tactics.
“To build a thriving democratic nation, we need a system founded on social dialogue, one that includes all critical stakeholders in nation-building. Such inclusiveness fosters deeper ownership of policies and ensures stability and sustainability.
“On this basis, we once again call on the federal government to withdraw the current tax bills before the National Assembly and allow all relevant national stakeholders to participate in the process. We are set to engage in a national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, where we hope to work together to co-create a new tax law that garners widespread support and drives national development.
“As we step into 2025, we urge the federal government to prioritize industrial peace by valuing social dialogue, implementing pro-human-progress policies, and honoring agreements with trade unions.
“The use of violence in dealing with workers and unions must end, as it breeds industrial unrest. As trade unions, we remain a steadfast partner in progress, working for Nigeria’s development while safeguarding the rights of workers and citizens alike.
“We have a vital stake in the governance of our nation and are deeply concerned about the direction in which it is heading. We seek to ensure that government policies deliver optimal outcomes for the country. While we urge the government to govern responsibly, it must also recognize its accountability to workers, a responsibility we will not compromise.
“We demand that all levels of government fully implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the outset of the year. Given the economic challenges arising from recent government policies, we will engage the government in a wage review to protect workers’ welfare.
“Nigeria will become more productive when workers’ incomes can meet at least their basic needs, thus enabling them to dedicate more to their work. We believe there should be alignment between the government and workers at all levels to achieve this. We look forward to productive discussions with our social partners as we move into 2025.
“Let us unite in our resolve to create a Nigeria where workers’ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are top priorities. Together, through collective effort and determination, we can transform Nigeria into a nation of progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity.”
