The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed ₦70,000 monthly wage award, demanding an immediate salary increase for workers and the full implementation of the outstanding agreement with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU).
The development follows the Federal Government’s announcement of a ₦70,000 monthly transport intervention for public service workers for six months, beginning in November 2026, after a meeting with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
According to reports published on Wednesday, October 28, the TUC argued that temporary financial assistance would not provide lasting relief for workers facing rising costs of food, transportation, healthcare and other essential goods and services.
The labour union maintained that the government should increase salaries directly rather than rely on temporary wage awards.
TUC Proposes ₦300,000 Minimum Salary
TUC President-General Festus Osifo and Secretary-General Nuhu Toro said the government could raise the salary of its lowest-paid worker from the current ₦70,000 minimum wage to ₦300,000, with appropriate adjustments to other salary grades. The proposal is the union’s demand and has not been approved by the Federal Government.
The congress also questioned the government’s handling of the previous wage award agreed upon in October 2023, alleging that some workers were still owed payments while others never benefited from the arrangement.
According to the TUC, a permanent salary increase would provide more reliable support than temporary payments, particularly as workers continue to struggle with the rising cost of living.
TUC Demands Implementation of JOHESU Agreement
The labour body further called on the Federal Government to honour its outstanding agreement with JOHESU, particularly the adjustment of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS).
The TUC said seven months had passed since the agreement was reached, but the salary adjustment remained unimplemented despite the suspension of industrial action by the health workers.
It urged the government to implement the agreement immediately, provide the necessary funding and publish a clear timetable for compliance.
The congress added that it was awaiting the outcome of its scheduled meeting with the Federal Government before deciding on its next line of action.
The dispute adds to ongoing pressure on the government to improve workers’ welfare and fulfil outstanding commitments to organised labour.