The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has called on state governments to speed up implementation of new national minimum wage and address the consequential adjustments necessary for workers’ welfare.
TUC President comrade Festus Osifo, speaking during National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, criticized some states for delaying to meet their obligations.
Comrade Osifo berated states like Cross River and Zamfara that have failed to engage in meaningful dialogue or establish committees to implement the new wage structure.
He noted that the current economic hardships, including inflation and increased costs of essential goods and services, have made it imperative for the government to expand tax relief measures for struggling Nigerians.
He further urged the federal government to avoid increasing the tax burden, as this would exacerbate the financial strain on citizens.
Speaking further , comrade Osifo emphasized the need for better economic policies, particularly in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and real estate, which have the potential to create more jobs.
He criticised the government for inadequate lending to these sectors and the questionable characterization of employment metrics, such as counting individuals working one hour per week as employed.
The TUC called for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries to reduce dependence on imports and stabilize the exchange rate.
He advocated for expanding compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure to lower transportation costs.
