Tayo Busayo, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to withdraw the controversial tax bills currently before the National Assembly, emphasizing the need for broader stakeholder engagement to ensure inclusivity and fairness in national tax policies.
This demand was made by NLC President Joe Ajaero in his New Year message to Nigerians, particularly workers, where he stressed the importance of prioritizing citizens' welfare and fostering economic progress through transparent and inclusive governance.
In his message titled "In 2025, Hope is in Our Collective Resolve," Ajaero highlighted the struggles faced by Nigerians, urging them to unite in building a stronger nation. He criticized policies that disregard public welfare and called on the government to adopt a transparent and people-centered approach.
“We call on the government at all levels to ensure that governance translates into real benefits for the people,” Ajaero stated. “Policies must reflect transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, devoid of chicanery, nepotism, and strong-arm tactics.”
He further stressed the need for social dialogue, allowing critical stakeholders to contribute to nation-building. According to him, inclusive governance fosters deeper ownership of policies, ensuring stability and sustainability.
The NLC President reiterated the Congress’s opposition to the tax bills, stating that they were introduced without adequate consultation with stakeholders. He proposed a national dialogue, scheduled to take place in Ibadan in January 2025, to co-create a new tax law that enjoys wider acceptance and aligns with the country’s development goals.
“We once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills before the National Assembly,” Ajaero said. “Let all key national stakeholders be part of the process to co-create a new national tax law that will fulfill its purpose of propelling national development.”
Ajaero also demanded compliance with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, effective from January 2025. He called for a wage review to reflect current economic realities, ensuring that workers' incomes meet their basic needs and boost productivity.
“Our nation will become more productive when the incomes of workers are able to meet at least their basic needs,” he said. “We look forward to fruitful engagement with our social partners to achieve this.”
The NLC President urged the government to prioritize industrial peace by respecting agreements with trade unions and avoiding the use of force in engagements with workers.
“The increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions must cease,” Ajaero warned. “This is a recipe for industrial disharmony.”
Looking ahead, Ajaero expressed hope for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria in 2025, where workers' welfare, decent work environments, and security are prioritized. He reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to partnering with the government for national development while advocating for workers’ rights.
“Together, through collective effort and determination, we can transform our nation into one of progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity,” he concluded.
As Nigeria enters 2025, the NLC’s message underscores the urgency of addressing economic and social challenges through collaboration and transparent governance. The call to withdraw the tax bills sets the stage for broader discussions on policies that impact citizens and workers, signaling a year of potential reforms and heightened advocacy.
