By Juliet Ezeh
The Nigeria Labour Congress has called on the Federal Government to urgently introduce relief measures for Nigerian workers following the sharp rise in petrol prices across the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the labour union warned that the surge in fuel prices now ranging between N1,170 and N1,300 per litre has intensified the economic burden on workers and households, raising concerns about worsening living conditions nationwide.
The statement, signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, stressed that Nigerian workers are facing increasing hardship as transportation costs, food prices, and general living expenses continue to climb.
According to the labour body, the Federal Government must immediately introduce a cost-of-living allowance (COLA) and a temporary wage award to cushion the impact of rising fuel prices on workers.
The union also urged authorities to grant tax relief for low-income earners and suspend what it described as unfair taxation policies affecting minimum-wage workers.
NLC Demands Immediate Refinery Revival
The labour union further called on the government to urgently restore the country’s public refineries, noting that Nigeria’s heavy dependence on imported fuel continues to expose the economy to international market shocks.
It specifically urged the government to ensure the full rehabilitation and operation of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, arguing that functional domestic refining capacity would help stabilize fuel supply and reduce exposure to global oil price volatility.
The union maintained that continued reliance on global markets for refined petroleum products leaves the country vulnerable to international conflicts and speculation.
Middle East Crisis Driving Global Oil Prices
The NLC linked the latest fuel price surge to tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have triggered fluctuations in global oil prices.
According to the labour body, these developments have had a ripple effect on Nigeria’s domestic fuel market, pushing prices higher and worsening the cost-of-living crisis for citizens.
Despite the economic pressure on Nigerians, projections by the Nigeria Economic Summit Group indicate that the country could earn as much as N30 trillion in additional oil revenue due to the surge in global crude oil prices triggered by the ongoing conflict.
Call for Transparent Use of Oil Windfall
The NLC insisted that any additional revenue generated from higher crude oil prices must be used to support Nigerians struggling with rising costs.
The union urged the Federal Government to invest the expected oil windfall in social programmes, including expanded cash transfers and economic relief initiatives targeting vulnerable citizens.
It warned that without urgent intervention, the rising cost of fuel and food could deepen economic hardship and fuel social tension across the country.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.