By Our Correspondent
National News – The Nigeria Labour Congress has urged the Federal Government to urgently introduce economic relief measures following the sharp rise in petrol prices across the country.
The labour union warned that the growing hardship caused by the fuel price spike could trigger widespread social and economic instability if swift action is not taken.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by NLC President, Joe Ajaero, the labour body called for immediate tax relief for workers, a cost-of-living allowance, and a wage award to cushion the impact of the rising cost of living.
The union said petrol prices have climbed to between N1,170 and N1,300 per litre, placing enormous pressure on Nigerian workers and households.
According to the NLC, the price increase is linked to the escalating tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have disrupted global oil markets.
The organisation said Nigeria’s heavy dependence on global pricing structures has left the country vulnerable to international crises.
The union also criticised the continued reliance on imported refined petroleum products, noting that Nigeria’s public refineries remain largely non-operational despite billions of naira reportedly spent on maintenance.
The labour body stressed that reviving the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries is critical to protecting Nigerians from volatile global fuel prices.
Ajaero stated that the rising cost of petrol and diesel has significantly increased transportation costs and worsened food inflation.
He warned that many workers are struggling to commute to work, while families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities.
The NLC further called for transparency in the government’s social intervention programmes, including the expansion of the national cash transfer initiative to ensure vulnerable citizens receive adequate support adjusted for inflation.
The labour union noted that Nigeria could benefit from an estimated N30 trillion oil revenue windfall due to higher global crude oil prices caused by the Middle East crisis.
It urged the government to channel the additional earnings into policies that directly support citizens and stabilise the economy.
The NLC concluded by urging the government to engage in sincere dialogue with workers and take decisive action to ease the growing economic burden on Nigerians.
