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The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has firmly called on the Federal Government to retract the contentious tax bills currently under consideration in the National Assembly.
In his New Year message to Nigerians, particularly workers, Joe Ajaero, the President of NLC, emphasised that the decision to withdraw the bills was rooted in the welfare of Nigerian workers. He emphasised the importance of the government demonstrating transparency, inclusivity, and honesty in its interactions with the public.
The message, titled “In 2025, hope is in our collective resolve,” stated: “As we enter the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, sends heartfelt New Year greetings to all workers and citizens throughout our great nation. “The obstacles to our survival as a community should not be a burden that weighs us down.
Let us harness our inner strength to forge a united determination to lift Nigeria from the depths of underdevelopment that have constrained it for far too long.
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No external force will rescue us from the affliction of economic hardship and stagnation.” Only through our united efforts and unwavering resolve can we advance our nation.
In a bold statement, the Governor of Ebonyi has pledged to prioritise policies and programs aimed at fostering development in 2025. “It is essential to cultivate inner strength in order to discover this shared determination throughout our vast nation.
This is a duty we must accept with steadfast resolve.
The government at all levels must be urged to transform governance into tangible benefits for the populace. The well-being of the populace stands as the foremost rationale for the existence of any governing body.
The fundamental expectations of individuals and workers encompass access to food and nutrition, improved healthcare, quality housing, education, reliable transportation, and enhanced security for lives and properties.
Additionally, there is a strong demand for the right to engage in decision-making processes regarding governance.
Policies should embody transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, free from deceit, favouritism, and coercive measures.
For the development of a vibrant and democratic nation, it is essential to establish a framework rooted in social dialogue, enabling key stakeholders to engage actively in the process of nation-building.
This kind of inclusiveness is likely to cultivate a stronger sense of ownership over government policies, which in turn will promote stability and sustainability.
We urge the federal government to reconsider its current tax bills pending before the National Assembly, ensuring that all essential national stakeholders are included in the decision-making process.
As we prepare for a national dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, our aim is to collaborate in the creation of a new national tax law that will gain broader acceptance and effectively drive national development, which we see as the primary goal of government.
As we approach 2025, it is imperative for the federal government to prioritise industrial peace by engaging in meaningful social dialogue, implementing pro-human-progress policies, and honouring agreements with trade unions.
“The escalating violence in interactions with workers and unions must come to an end, as it leads to industrial discord.
As a collective entity, we stand firm in our dedication to advancing Nigeria’s development while safeguarding the rights of workers and the broader community.
Our investment in the well-being of our country is significant, and we are deeply concerned about its governance, which drives us to advocate for government policies that yield the best possible results for our nation.
We call on the government to fulfil its responsibilities effectively, while also recognising that our accountability lies with our members, a duty we cannot evade. “It is imperative that governments at all levels adhere to the stipulations of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act starting from the outset of the year.
In light of the economic challenges brought about by recent government policies, we will seek to engage with the government for a review of wages to ensure the protection of workers’ welfare.
The productivity of our nation will increase when workers’ incomes are sufficient to cover their basic needs, leading to a greater commitment to their jobs.
We hold the view that there should be a consensus among us and the various levels of government. We anticipate productive collaboration with our social partners as we approach 2025.
We must come together in our commitment to create a Nigeria that prioritises the welfare of workers, decent working conditions, and the safety of life and property.” Through our united efforts and unwavering resolve, we have the power to reshape our nation into a beacon of progress, inclusivity, and collective prosperity.
