TUC rejects Federal Government transport allowance and demands salary rise

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has rejected the Federal Government proposal of a N70,000 transportation allowance for workers for six months. The union is demanding an immediate salary increase and the full implementation of the agreement with JOHESU.

The union stated on Wednesday that permanent salary increases would offer more reliable relief to workers dealing with rising living costs. The Federal Government had announced the six month transport allowance on Tuesday, with payments due to start in November 2026 after a conciliation meeting with the leadership of the NLC.

Union Demands and Previous Agreements

The position of the TUC followed a demand letter sent to the Federal Government on October 8, 2026, through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. The union argued that the Federal Government can raise the salary of the lowest paid workers from the current N70,000 minimum wage to N300,000. It pointed out that some state governments have already introduced minimum wages above N100,000.

The TUC rejected the transport allowance because of past issues with a similar wage award agreed in October 2023. The union stated that the previous wage award was inconsistent and that more than 80 percent of states and the informal sector failed to implement it.

Broader Economic Measures

Aside from salary increases, the TUC asked governments at all levels to lower the cost of essential goods and services. The union also called for timely payment of salaries and pensions, protection of jobs, and the revitalisation of the productive sector.

The demands include fulfilling outstanding agreements with public sector and health sector workers, such as the February 2026 settlement with JOHESU. These actions come as organised labour continues to pressure the Government over workers purchasing power and compliance with wage agreements.