TUC Rejects N70,000 Transport Allowance, Demands Salary Hike

The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) rejected the federal government's proposed N70,000 transport allowance for civil servants, asserting that temporary wage awards are unsustainable. This proposal was approved to support public service workers for six months, beginning in November 2026, amid rising living costs.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the allowance as a desperate measure to quell public discontent. The approval was part of a memorandum of understanding signed by key government officials, including Tanimu Yakubu, Joe Ajaero, Garba Abdul, and Muhammad Dingyadi.

TUC, during its National Administrative Council meeting on October 8, demanded an immediate salary increase and the implementation of agreements with the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU). TUC President Festus Osifo stated that the government could raise salaries without minimum wage negotiations, suggesting a potential increase to N300,000 for the lowest-paid workers.

TUC plans to await the outcome of further discussions with the government regarding their demands.