The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) said it would convene a national dialogue on the State of nation this month in Ibadan, Oyo State, to brainstorm on the new national tax reform bills.
In a New Year message to Nigerian workers signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC said policies of government must be citizen-driven, adding that people’s welfare remains the primary justification for the existence of any government.
The NLC said in order to create a thriving, democratic nation, government needs system built on the tenets of social dialogue, allowing critical stakeholders to participate actively in nation-building.
It said that such inclusiveness would foster deeper ownership of government policies, ensuring stability and sustainability.
“It is on this premise that we once again call on the federal government to withdraw its present tax bills 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 would fulfill its purpose of propelling national development which we believe is the main objective of government,” it said.
The labour movement said government policies must reflect transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, devoid of chicanery, nepotism, and strong-arm tactics.
“We call on the government at all levels to ensure that governance translates into real benefits for the people.
‘The welfare of the citizens remains the primary justification for the existence of any government. Access to food and Nutrition, better healthcare, Quality Housing, Education, Transportation and
greater Security of lives and properties including the right to participate in decisions on how they are ruled are the key expectations of the people and workers,” it said.
As the country enters 2025, the NLC urged the federal government to prioritiseindustrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human-progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions.
It said the increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions must cease, as it is a recipe for industrial disharmony.
It further insisted that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the very beginning of the year.
It added that given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, the leadership of Labour will engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare.
“Trade unions which we are, as a pan-people organisation remain a committed partner in progress, striving for the development of Nigeria while protecting the rights of workers and citizens at large.
“We have a very large stake in our nation and are concerned about how our nation is run compelling us to thus seek to ensure that government policies give our nation optimal outcomes.”
Meanwhile the former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngigehas urged Nigerians to de-emphasise issues that divide the people and promote unity.
In his New Year Message, Ngige urged the citizens to show more understanding and support for the efforts to help pull the country out of the bad economic situation.
“So, as we enter 2025, let us do away with all forms of negative mindset and think in the direction of a brighter future for our dear country. Once we embrace a positive mindset, the nation will overcome and become stronger.”
Regarding the off-cycle governorship election in Anambra State billed for November this year, Ngige called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to exhibit transparency and abide by its set rules, processes and guidelines in the election, to ensure a free and fair polls.
He advised all aspirants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship and play according to the rules of their political parties and the electoral umpire.
Onyebuchi Ezigbo
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