The federal government and the Nigeria Labour Congress have signed a conciliation agreement that provides a N70,000 transport allowance for six months and commits to clearing 19 months of unpaid health‑worker allowances, with payments slated to start in November 2026.
What are the key components of the deal?
- A transport intervention of N70,000 will be paid to all categories of workers for six months, beginning November 2026.
- A "peculiar allowance" will take effect from 1 May 2026.
- Outstanding health‑worker allowances covering 19 months will be settled in three equal instalments, starting December 2026.
- The arrears for other workers will also be paid in three monthly instalments beginning November 2026.
Who signed the agreement?
The pact was signed on behalf of the government by Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, Minister of Labour and Employment at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, along with Timi Yakubu, Director‑General, Budget, and Dr. Garba Abdul S. U., Permanent Secretary (SWO). Representing the NLC were President Joe Ajaero and National Secretary Olowoyo Gbenga.
When will the minimum‑wage process move forward?
The parties agreed to form a Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee immediately, although they remain split on the exact date the new minimum wage will take effect. The issue of tax relief for workers was referred to the National Executive Council because taxation is a statutory matter.
How are other allowances being verified?
The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has forwarded a list of beneficiaries and cost estimates for a proposed hazard allowance for agricultural officers to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission for verification. The commission is expected to complete this review within two weeks and then issue an implementation template. A separate assessment of the cost implications of the proposed CONHESS adjustment will be finished by the commission within three weeks, enabling the Presidential Committee on Salaries to decide on the proposal.
What are the next steps for implementation?
Both the federal government and the NLC urged state and local authorities to join the intervention process and enforce the agreed measures. The parties also committed to reconvene after one month to evaluate the progress of implementation.
This agreement aims to alleviate the rising cost of living, address concerns over petroleum pump prices, and improve overall workers’ welfare across the country.