ABUJA — The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for public service workers, describing temporary wage awards as unsustainable palliatives that fail to solve the systemic economic hardship facing Nigerian workers.
In a joint press statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, by TUC President Festus Osifo and Secretary-General Nuhu Toro, the labor center demanded an immediate, comprehensive salary review across all tiers of government instead of short-term relief packages.
The labor leadership argued that previous wage award initiatives proved ineffective, leaving over 80 per cent of state workers and the informal sector completely excluded.
“How do we go back to the same wage award that never benefited all workers? How can workers be expected to trust fresh promises when previous obligations remain outstanding?” the union questioned.
The congress stressed that the rising cost of living, hyperinflation, and soaring transportation costs require a fundamental upward adjustment of baselines rather than six-month temporary allowances.
“TUC therefore rejects inadequate temporary relief and demands wage justice for all categories of workers, social protection, reduction of cost of living for the vulnerable, and full compliance with agreements,” the statement asserted.
Osifo and Toro reiterated that decent compensation is a fundamental right, adding that the congress will not hesitate to deploy all legitimate legal mechanisms to compel the government to honor existing labor commitments.
“Workers’ welfare is not a privilege. Agreements must be honoured. Workers’ rights must be respected. Government must comply,” the labor leaders affirmed.
The TUC disclosed that it is currently awaiting the outcome of a crucial scheduled meeting with federal government representatives before finalizing its next line of industrial action.
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