The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to withdraw the controversial tax bills from the National Assembly.
In his New Year message to Nigerians, particularly workers, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized that the request was rooted in the welfare of Nigerian workers. He also stressed the importance of transparency, inclusivity, and honesty in government dealings with the public.
The message, titled “In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve,” stated: “As we enter 2025, the NLC sends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across Nigeria. The survival challenges we’ve faced should not hold us back. Instead, let us harness our inner strength to build a collective resolve that will propel Nigeria out of the underdevelopment that has long constrained it.”
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has emphasized that no external power will rescue the country from its economic struggles. The NLC stressed that only through collective effort and determination can Nigeria overcome its challenges and move forward.
In its New Year message, the NLC called for governance that directly benefits citizens, highlighting that the welfare of the people should be the primary responsibility of any government. Key areas of concern include access to food, healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and security, along with the right to participate in decision-making processes.
The NLC also urged for transparency, honesty, and inclusivity in government policies, rejecting nepotism and strong-arm tactics. It advocated for a system based on social dialogue, allowing critical stakeholders to actively participate in nation-building, fostering a sense of ownership and ensuring the stability of government policies.
Furthermore, the NLC renewed its call for the withdrawal of the controversial tax bills currently before the National Assembly. It proposed a national dialogue on a new tax law that would have broader acceptance and contribute to national development. The NLC also urged the federal government to prioritize industrial peace, end the use of violence in labor engagements, and honor agreements with trade unions.
The message also highlighted the importance of adhering to the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and the need for wage reviews in response to economic challenges. The NLC emphasized that the nation’s productivity would improve if workers’ incomes were sufficient to meet their basic needs.
In conclusion, the NLC urged unity to ensure that workers’ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are prioritized, calling for collective efforts to create a nation of progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity.
