The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills submitted by President Bola Tinubu to the National Assembly, citing the need for a more inclusive process involving key national stakeholders.
NLC President Joe Ajaero in a statement described the bills as “controversial,” particularly in northern regions, where they have been criticized as detrimental to their economic interests.
The NLC urged the government to prioritize policies that improve access to food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security.
Ajaero emphasized the union’s commitment to negotiating an upward wage review to address economic challenges faced by workers. “The challenges of survival we have faced as a people must not hold us down. Instead, let us find inner strength to build a collective resolve to drive Nigeria out of the morass of underdevelopment,” he said.
His statement added, “It is on this premise that we once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills before the National Assembly so that all key national stakeholders will be part of the process.
“As we move into 2025, we urge the federal government to prioritize industrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions.
“We insist that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the very beginning of the year. Furthermore, given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, we shall engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare.”
Presidency Disappointed With Labour
However, the presidency has suggested that the NLC leadership does not fully understand the content of the tax reform bills.
Special Assistant to President on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, reminded Labour that the proposals would relieve 90% of workers under the Unions of tax burdens.
He said he found it ironic that the NLC leaders are opposing the bills despite the potential benefits to their members.
“Funny how more than 90% of workers under the NLC will be relieved of tax burdens… but their leaders are here asking for the withdrawal,” Olusegun wrote.
The NLC says it plans to host “a national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025” that will “co-create a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfil its purpose of propelling national development which we believe is the main objective of government.”
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