BREAKING: Bola Tinubu Led Government To Meet NLC Today Over Fuel Subsidy Removal—The Federal Government of Nigeria is set to hold a meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) today at 2 pm to discuss the planned removal of fuel subsidy.
This development was revealed by NLC National President, Joe Ajaero, during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program.
Ajaero stated that while President Bola Tinubu may have good intentions, the Labour Congress insists that alternatives must be provided. He emphasized the need for the President to understand the implications of fuel subsidy removal on the Nigerian populace and consider the welfare of the people.
Among the alternatives proposed by the NLC are the repair of the country’s four refineries and the provision of transportation alternatives for Nigerian workers, among other measures.
In a separate statement, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) expressed support for the deregulation of the oil sector and the removal of fuel subsidy, believing that it is necessary for Nigeria’s progress.
President Tinubu had announced the end of fuel subsidy in his inaugural speech on Monday, stating that the 2023 budget does not allocate funds for subsidy payments. Instead, the government plans to redirect funds towards infrastructure and other sectors to strengthen the economy.
However, the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) argues that the President cannot unilaterally decide on subsidy removal. They pointed out that the previous administration under Muhammadu Buhari intentionally left the “sensitive issue” for the new government to address.
Since the President’s announcement, fuel queues have reappeared across the country as Nigerians search for fuel, with prices ranging from N300 per liter and above.
Further updates on this matter will be provided.