The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a strong appeal to federal, state, and local governments. The labour centre demands immediate steps to lessen the severe economic difficulties confronting workers across the nation.
Urgent Call for Worker Protection
In a New Year statement dated January 6, 2026, the TUC leadership highlighted the crushing impact of persistent inflation and escalating costs of living. The message was jointly signed by the union's President, Comrade Festus Osifor, and the Secretary General, Nuhu Toro.
The Congress argued that employees should not bear the full weight of the country's ongoing economic reforms alone. "Nigerian workers must not be left to shoulder the burden of economic reforms without adequate protection and support," the statement declared. It called for a review and enhancement of workers' allowances to provide temporary relief. This measure is seen as crucial ahead of the full implementation of a new national minimum wage slated for 2027, as mandated by the Labour Act.
Fighting Anti-Worker Policies and Pushing for Fair Taxes
The TUC also detailed its ongoing battle against policies it deems harmful to workers' welfare. Throughout 2025, the union opposed several government fiscal measures, including:
- New charges on ATM transactions.
- Increases in electricity tariffs.
- A proposed 15% import duty on petroleum products.
- A 5% tax on fuel.
The Congress believes its vigorous interventions helped prevent further hikes in fuel pump prices and mitigated some cost-of-living pressures on ordinary Nigerians.
On the issue of taxation, the TUC confirmed it remains in active discussions with relevant authorities. The union is advocating for a fair, progressive, and equitable tax system. A key principle is that this system should not place a disproportionate burden on workers, low-income earners, or the poor.
Reflecting on a Year of Resilience and Unity
Looking back at the labour movement's activities in 2025, the TUC described the year as one that tested the resilience of Nigerian workers. Despite the challenges, the Congress noted that unity, discipline, and vigilance within its ranks made it emerge stronger and more coordinated.
Significant efforts were made on workers' welfare fronts. The TUC highlighted its push for the implementation of the new national minimum wage across all states. It also provided support to its affiliate unions in negotiating Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) in various sectors of the economy.
The statement serves as a clear reminder to the government that the plight of the average worker is central to national stability. The TUC's call underscores the growing urgency for concrete policy actions to address the deepening economic squeeze.
