The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has made a resolute call for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills proposed by President Bola Tinubu and submitted to the National Assembly. The NLC President, Joe Ajaero stated that the demand is because of the need to involving key national stakeholders in the tax reform process to ensure the resulting legislation is comprehensive and equitable.
The NLC's stance stems from widespread criticism of the bills, particularly from northern regions of the country, where they have been perceived as detrimental to economic growth. In a New Year message to Nigerians, Ajaero reiterated the union's commitment to advocating for the welfare and well-being of the nation's citizens in 2025. He stressed that the government's primary responsibility is to improve the lives of its people, a goal that should be reflected in all policy decisions.
The NLC's message, titled "In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve," underscores the union's determination to foster a collective effort to propel Nigeria out of its longstanding economic challenges. Ajaero called on Nigerians to build inner strength and unity to overcome the country's underdevelopment, emphasizing that no external power can deliver the nation from its economic hardships. Instead, it is through the collective resolve and determination of Nigerians that the country can move forward.
The NLC President urged the government to ensure that governance translates into tangible benefits for the people. He highlighted key areas that need attention, including access to food and nutrition, healthcare, housing, education, transportation, and security. He also stressed the importance of citizens' right to participate in decisions affecting their lives, advocating for policies that are transparent, honest, and inclusive.
Ajaero criticized the existing tax reform bills, arguing that they lack the necessary input from all key stakeholders and do not adequately address the needs and concerns of the Nigerian people. He called for a more inclusive process, suggesting that the federal government withdraw the current bills and engage in a national dialogue to co-create new tax laws that enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill the objective of propelling national development.
The NLC plans to hold a national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025 to discuss the creation of a new national tax law. This dialogue aims to bring together various stakeholders to ensure that the resulting legislation is not only fair and just but also effective in driving national development.
In addition to tax reform, the NLC is focused on achieving industrial peace and ensuring the government's commitment to social dialogue and pro-human-progress policies. Ajaero emphasized the importance of respecting agreements with trade unions and warned against the increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions, describing it as a recipe for industrial disharmony.
The NLC remains a committed partner in Nigeria's progress, striving to protect the rights of workers and citizens. Ajaero underscored the union's significant stake in the nation's well-being and its responsibility to ensure that government policies yield optimal outcomes for the country. He called on the government to govern effectively and honor its commitments to the Nigerian people.
One of the key demands of the NLC is compliance with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the beginning of the year. Given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, the union plans to engage the government in discussions about a wage review to safeguard workers' welfare. Ajaero argued that the productivity of the nation would increase if workers' incomes could meet their basic needs, leading to greater commitment to their work.
As Nigeria moves into 2025, the NLC is committed to advocating for workers' welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property. Ajaero called for unity in the collective resolve to ensure a Nigeria characterized by progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity. The union believes that through collective effort and determination, the nation can overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable success.
The NLC's call for the withdrawal of the Tax Reform Bills and its broader agenda for 2025 reflect the union's deep commitment to improving the lives of Nigerian workers and citizens. The union's focus on inclusive governance, social dialogue, and respect for workers' rights underscores its role as a crucial advocate for positive change in Nigeria.
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