NLC calls for dialogue on tax reform bills to address workforce concerns
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) has called for constructive dialogue with the Federal Government regarding the Tax Reform Bill, particularly its impact on the workforce.
During the unveiling of a CNG bus for the Union’s Southwest chapters in Ibadan, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, highlighted the necessity of addressing areas in the Bill that could adversely affect workers.
“There is a need for collaboration with the government to straighten out some issues as spelt out in the Bill. For instance, the clause on zero taxation for workers earning below N800,000 per annum does not align with public service realities, where salaries often exceed this baseline,” Ajaero stated.
Ajaero pointed out that public service workers, even at entry levels, surpass the N70,000 per month threshold, effectively nullifying exemptions and leaving most workers subject to taxation. “We need to tell the government where it hurts us,” he added.
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Tax expert and Lead City University lecturer, Prof. Godwin Oyedokun, supported the call for reform, stating that taxation should avoid targeting impoverished citizens. Instead, he urged policies that ensure affluent individuals contribute equitably. “Tax reforms should focus on informal and digital business sectors while sparing the vulnerable,” he advised.
In a related development, Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal, unveiled the CNG buses donated by the Federal Government to the NLC. The governor emphasised the importance of government-labour collaboration for sustainable progress.
The NLC intends to use this platform for proactive negotiations, ensuring reforms align with workforce welfare while contributing to national economic transformation.
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