TUC INSISTS ON OUTRIGHT SALARY INCREASE FOR WORKERS, REJECTS N70,000 PALLIATIVE

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has insisted that workers need an outright salary increase to cope with the rising cost of living, rejecting the Federal Government’s proposed N70,000 transport allowance as an inadequate response to economic hardship.

The labour organisation maintained that Nigerian workers continue to face mounting financial pressure from high food prices, transportation costs, housing expenses and other essential needs. It argued that a temporary palliative would not provide the lasting relief required to improve workers’ purchasing power.

The TUC said the government should prioritise a meaningful adjustment to workers’ salaries rather than rely on allowances that may offer only short-term assistance. It stressed that wages must reflect prevailing economic realities and enable employees to meet their basic needs.

The union’s position comes amid continuing discussions between organised labour and the Federal Government over workers’ welfare following the removal of the petrol subsidy and subsequent increases in the cost of living.

Labour unions have repeatedly called for measures to cushion the effects of economic reforms, including improved wages, affordable transportation and stronger social protection for vulnerable households.

The TUC also emphasised the need for constructive engagement between the government and labour representatives to prevent disagreements from escalating into industrial disputes. It maintained that any support package should be developed through consultation with workers’ representatives and should address the underlying causes of declining living standards.

The union’s rejection of the proposed allowance highlights the wider debate over whether temporary financial assistance can adequately compensate workers for sustained increases in the cost of essential goods and services.

Organised labour is expected to continue pressing for improved remuneration and policies that protect workers’ welfare as negotiations over economic relief measures continue.