Organised labour yesterday called on the federal government to withdraw the Tax Reform Bills currently before the national assembly, insisting on the need for inclusive participation of critical stakeholders in formulating a new national tax law.
In a New Year message, the president of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero NLC, demanded transparency, inclusivity, and fairness in policy formulation, especially concerning taxation.
Ajaero stated that the welfare of citizens must remain the central focus of governance in 2025 and urged the government to adopt policies that provide tangible benefits such as access to nutritious food, improved healthcare, quality education, housing and security.
He stressed the importance of engaging critical stakeholders, including workers, in co-creating a new tax framework that aligns with national development goals.
In the New Year message, the labour leader also called on the government to prioritise industrial peace by respecting agreements with trade unions and engaging in meaningful dialogue to cease using strong-arm tactics against workers.
He further urged all levels of government to implement the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act and advance plans to advocate for a wage review in response to economic pressures.
The message reads in part: “As we enter 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress extends warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across our great nation. The challenges of survival we have faced as a people must not hold us down.
We call on the government at all levels to ensure that governance translates into tangible benefits for the people. The welfare of the citizens remains the primary justification for the existence of any government.”
“We once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present Tax Bill before the national assembly so that all key national stakeholders will be part of the process.
As we embark on a National Dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, we want to join hands in co-creating a new national tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfil its purpose of propelling national development.”
Let us unite in our resolve to ensure a Nigeria where workers‘ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are prioritised.“
Together, through collective effort and determination, we can transform our nation into one of progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity.“