NLC to hold national dialogue on tax reform bills in Ibadan
By Jeffrey Agbo
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced plans to convene a national dialogue on the state of the nation, focusing on the new national tax reform bills.
The dialogue is scheduled to take place this month in Ibadan, Oyo State.
In a New Year message signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the congress emphasised that government policies must be citizen-driven, highlighting that the welfare of the people is the primary justification for the existence of any government.
The NLC further stressed the importance of building a system rooted in social dialogue where critical stakeholders actively participate in nation-building. According to the NLC, such inclusiveness would enhance public ownership of government policies, fostering stability and long-term 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.
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“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.
The NLC urged the federal government to prioritise industrial 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.
The NLC added that given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, its leadership would 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,” the statement added.