The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has called on governments at the federal, state and local levels to urgently review workers’ salaries and allowances in response to the rising cost of living and persistent inflation across the country.
The labour centre made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday by its President, Festus Osifo, and General Secretary, Nuhu Toro, expressing concern over the economic pressures facing Nigerian workers as the nation enters 2026.
According to the TUC, prevailing economic conditions have severely eroded workers’ purchasing power, making it necessary for governments to strengthen social welfare measures, particularly through the payment of enhanced allowances, to cushion the impact of inflation.
The union said the review of allowances should serve as an immediate relief while awaiting the full implementation of a new National Minimum Wage scheduled for 2027, in line with existing labour laws.
“In view of persistent inflation and rising living costs, the TUC calls on governments at all levels to urgently review and enhance workers’ allowances as a temporary relief measure, pending the full implementation of a new National Minimum Wage in 2027,” the statement said.
The TUC warned that workers should not be made to bear the burden of ongoing economic reforms without adequate safeguards, stressing that sufficient protection and support must be provided.
It also urged workers to remain united in the face of current economic challenges, reaffirming its commitment to defending workers’ rights and welfare.
“Unity remains our greatest strength. As we move into 2026, we must remain resolute, strengthen our solidarity and sustain our commitment to the ideals that bind us together,” the union added.
