The TUC transport allowance proposal has faced criticism from the Trade Union Congress, which wants the Federal Government to increase workers’ salaries instead of relying on temporary financial relief. The congress argues that rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses continue to put pressure on Nigerian workers.
The congress argues that temporary financial support cannot provide lasting relief for workers struggling with increasing food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses. It wants the government to prioritise a substantial salary increase rather than rely on short-term interventions.
The disagreement follows the Federal Government’s announcement that it would introduce the transport allowance in November 2026 for six months. The measure emerged from discussions between the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
However, the TUC maintains that workers need a more sustainable solution to their financial difficulties.
TUC Transport Allowance Faces Rejection
The TUC has urged the Federal Government to review workers’ salaries and improve their purchasing power as economic pressures continue to affect households.
The congress has proposed raising the salary of the lowest-paid federal workers from the current ₦70,000 minimum wage to ₦300,000. It also wants appropriate adjustments to other salary levels.
However, the proposed ₦300,000 figure remains a labour demand and does not represent an approved government salary increase.
The union has also raised concerns about outstanding payments and previous wage-related agreements. It argues that the government must fulfil its commitments to workers while developing policies that offer lasting economic relief.
According to the congress, salary improvements would help workers meet essential expenses more consistently than a temporary transport allowance.
The TUC also wants the government to lower the cost of goods and services. It called for better workers’ welfare and timely payment of salaries and pensions.
FG Plans Six-Month Transport Support
The Federal Government’s transport allowance is scheduled to begin in November and run for six months. The programme aims to provide temporary financial assistance to eligible public service workers amid rising living costs.
The government also reached an agreement with the NLC on outstanding peculiar allowances dating back to May 1, 2026, with payments scheduled in three monthly instalments beginning in November.
The TUC’s position highlights the difference between temporary relief and its broader salary demands. While the transport allowance offers short-term support, the proposed salary increase would require a separate decision by the government.
The disagreement adds to ongoing discussions about workers’ welfare, wage agreements and the rising cost of living in Nigeria.
Workers will be watching for further developments as the government prepares to implement the transport allowance and labour leaders continue pressing for better pay.
