TUC rejects FG’s N70,000 transport allowance, demands salary hike

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed N70,000 transport allowance, demanding an immediat salary review to cushion current economic hardship.

This is contained in a statement jointly signed by TUC President, Mr Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr Nuhu Toro, on Wednesday in Abuja.

The Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) had on Tuesday signed an agreement approving an N70,000 monthly transport allowance to cushion the effect of rising living costs for federal public servants.

However, the TUC rejected the agreement, describing temporary transport allowance as inadequate, unsustainable and non-far-reaching to address the reality of rising inflation.

According to the congress, a previous wage award agreed upon by the government and organised labour on Oct. 2, 2023, was not fully implemented, despite being intended to last until the negotiation of a new minimum wage in 2024.

It noted that some workers were still owed one or two months of the previous award, while others received nothing, adding that payments to beneficiaries were generally irregular.

The congress further alleged that over 80 per cent of state governments and operators in the informal sector failed to implement any form of wage award.

“Negotiation of a new national minimum wage must not become an excuse for postponing urgent pay increments.

“The Federal Government can increase salaries without waiting for minimum wage negotiations, as no law prescribes a maximum wage in the country,” it said.

The TUC highlighted states that had raised their minimum wage above N100,000, arguing that the Federal Government could similarly raise the pay of its lowest-paid worker and apply appropriate consequential adjustments across board.

The congress urged governments at all levels to reduce the cost of essential goods and services, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions, protect jobs, and curb exploitative labor practices.

It also called for the revitalization of the productive sector to generate decent employment, stressing that economic interventions must be inclusive and supported by clear implementation timelines.

Commenting on the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), the TUC demanded the immediate implementation of the agreement on the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).

It expressed concern that the adjustment remained unimplemented seven months after the agreement was reached, despite JOHESU suspending its prolonged industrial action in good faith.

The congress urged the Federal Government to honour the agreement, publish an implementation timetable and make the necessary budgetary provisions to resolve outstanding issues.

The TUC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting affected affiliate unions and pursuing lawful measures to secure compliance, adding that it awaited the outcome of its scheduled meeting with the government before deciding on its next line of action.