NLC Demands Withdrawal Of Tax Reform Bills, Seeks Wage Review

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the federal government to withdraw the Tax Reform Bills submitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Tinubu, calling for a more inclusive process that involves key national stakeholders.

In its New Year message, the NLC emphasised the need for policies that prioritise citizen welfare and address the rising cost of living in 2025.

The statement, titled “In 2025, Hope is in Our Collective Resolve,” highlighted the union’s stance on critical economic and social issues affecting workers and citizens alike.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, described the Tax Reform Bills as controversial and potentially detrimental to economic growth, especially in the northern region. He stated, “Creating a comprehensive national tax policy requires collaboration across all sectors to ensure transparency and acceptance.”

The NLC called for the government to focus on improving access to essential services such as food, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security, emphasising that they are fundamental to effective governance.

The union reiterated its commitment to negotiating an upward wage review to address the economic challenges faced by workers. Ajaero emphasised the need for compliance with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, stating, “We shall engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare.”

He also criticised the increasing use of force in interactions with unions, warning that such actions threaten industrial harmony. “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,” the statement read.

As part of its plans for 2025, the NLC announced a national dialogue to be held in Ibadan, Oyo State, in January. The dialogue aimed to foster collaboration on a new tax framework that supports national development while ensuring inclusivity.

The NLC expressed optimism for constructive engagement with social partners to create a tax law that enjoys broader acceptance. “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,” Ajaero said.

The NLC’s statement also called for unity and collective resolve to drive Nigeria toward sustainable development. “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 that has held it captive for far too long,” Ajaero urged.

He further stated, “No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation. It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward.”