The Nigeria Labour Congress has declared its firm opposition to the Federal Government's planned tax reforms, which are scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2026. The labour union has pledged to reject any tax system it perceives as being distorted, falsified, or subject to political manipulation.
NLC President's Christmas Message Warns Government
In his Christmas message, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, issued a strong warning to the government. He stated that any tax legislation developed and enacted without the meaningful participation of workers would constitute an unjust tax regime. Ajaero advised authorities to take their time to formulate laws that are widely co-created by stakeholders, rather than rushing into flawed legislation.
"It is better to patiently craft a law that is broadly co-created and owned than rush into one filled with serious errors and outright political manipulations," Ajaero emphasized. He stressed that the active inclusion of workers in the process is non-negotiable for a fair system.
Call for Social Justice and Fair Taxation
Ajaero used the occasion to highlight the critical importance of social justice. He argued that all Nigerian citizens must be guaranteed access to dignity, quality healthcare, and proper education. A central part of achieving this, according to him, is establishing a system of tax justice.
"Together, in this season and beyond, we must insist on tax justice where the rich pay their fair share and all forms of regressive taxation are removed," the NLC leader declared. He linked economic equity directly to national well-being.
Demands for Worker Equity and National Security
The labour president's message also outlined key demands for the nation's workforce. He called for labour to be justly rewarded, for workers' rights to be fully respected, and for all workplaces to be made safe. Beyond the economic sphere, Ajaero advocated for a secure nation where lives and property are protected, allowing citizens to conduct legitimate business without fear.
While encouraging Nigerians to embrace the spirit of love during the festive season, Ajaero framed self-love in a national context. He stated that true love for the country means confronting its deep-seated challenges head-on.
"Achieving this means chasing all forces of darkness; corruption, exploitation, injustice, insecurity and bad governance; out of our country. This is the most credible, sustainable celebration we can undertake," he said.
He described this collective action not as selfish, but as a strategic necessity to build a disciplined front to protect workers' interests, wages, pensions, and dignity. From this foundation, he believes the light of love can truly shine throughout Nigeria.
