TUC Rejects FG’s N70,000 Transport Allowance, Demands Immediate Salary Increase

TUC Rejects FG’s N70,000 Transport Allowance, Demands Immediate Salary Increase

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed N70,000 monthly transport allowance for six months, demanding immediate salary increases for workers nationwide.

TUC President Festus Osifo described the temporary intervention as inadequate, arguing that Nigerian workers need sustainable salary adjustments rather than short-term relief amid rising living costs.

The allowance, scheduled to begin in November 2026, emerged from negotiations between the Federal Government and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), although TUC representatives opposed the agreement.

Osifo questioned the government’s credibility, citing irregular payments of previous wage awards and insisting that outstanding obligations must not undermine fresh commitments to workers’ welfare.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Union of Pensioners condemned its exclusion from the allowance, urging President Bola Tinubu to extend the benefit or introduce equivalent support for retirees.

Economic analysts also criticised the intervention, warning that transportation assistance alone cannot address escalating food prices, healthcare expenses, housing costs and declining household purchasing power nationwide.

They urged the government to reduce fuel prices, strengthen agricultural production, expand employment opportunities and improve public transportation infrastructure to deliver broader economic relief.

The controversy highlights growing pressure on the Tinubu administration to implement credible welfare policies, ensure timely payments and deliver measurable improvements in Nigerians’ living conditions.