TUC REJECTS FG’S PROPOSED N70,000 MONTHLY TRANSPORT ALLOWANCE FOR WORKERS

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed N70,000 monthly transport allowance for workers, insisting that the intervention may not adequately address the rising cost of transportation and the broader economic hardship facing employees.

The labour centre said the proposal must be assessed against the current cost of commuting, particularly in major cities where workers spend a significant portion of their earnings travelling to and from work.

The rejection comes amid persistent increases in fuel prices, public transport fares and other living expenses that have reduced workers’ purchasing power.

Labour leaders have argued that temporary allowances may offer some relief but cannot replace a comprehensive approach to improving workers’ welfare. They have called for sustainable measures that address the underlying causes of rising transportation costs.

The TUC has also emphasised the need for meaningful consultations between the government and organised labour before decisions affecting workers’ welfare are implemented.

Workers across the country continue to face pressure from higher food prices, housing costs, electricity bills and other essential expenses. Labour representatives maintain that any relief package should reflect these realities and provide tangible benefits to employees.

The union is expected to continue engaging the government on measures to cushion the impact of economic reforms, improve access to affordable transportation and protect workers’ incomes.

The dispute highlights continuing tensions between organised labour and the Federal Government over the adequacy of interventions introduced to ease the cost-of-living crisis.

Labour leaders maintain that lasting solutions must go beyond short-term payments to include improved public transport, better wages, stronger social protection and policies that reduce the cost of essential goods and services.