NLC Promises to Reject Unfair Tax System Ahead of 2026 Reforms

As Nigeria prepares for the implementation of new tax reforms on January 1, 2026, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has pledged to oppose any tax framework it deems unjust, biased, or misleading. The labour body has warned that workers will resist policies that exclude their input during the formulation and enactment of tax laws.

The NLC emphasized that a tax system that fails to involve workers in decision-making processes is inherently inequitable and risks aggravating social inequality and unrest. Speaking on the upcoming reforms, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, urged the Federal Government to avoid rushing into the enforcement of tax laws that appear politically manipulated or technically flawed, advocating instead for a transparent and consultative approach that includes all stakeholders.

“It is far better to patiently design tax policies that are co-created and embraced by all stakeholders than to hurriedly implement laws that could erode public confidence,” Ajaero stated.

He further highlighted the importance of social justice in taxation, asserting that all citizens are entitled to dignity, access to quality healthcare and education, and a fair economic system. The NLC president reiterated that any tax law excluding workers from the legislative process is fundamentally unfair.

Ajaero called for tax justice, emphasizing the need for equitable distribution of the tax burden. According to him, wealthy individuals and corporations should contribute fairly, while all regressive taxes that disproportionately affect lower-income earners must be removed.

“During this festive season and beyond, we must demand tax fairness where the affluent shoulder their responsibilities and regressive taxes are eliminated,” he remarked.

Beyond taxation, Ajaero stressed the necessity of workers’ rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions, calling for greater equity across all sectors of employment. He also underscored the role of national security, noting that Nigerians must be able to carry out lawful activities without fear or intimidation.

In a broader perspective, Ajaero encouraged citizens to practice collective self-empowerment, which he described as a form of strategic ‘self-love.’ According to him, national progress requires confronting corruption, exploitation, injustice, insecurity, and poor governance.

“This self-love is not selfish; it is strategic. It is expressed through our commitment to collectively protect our wages, pensions, rights, and dignity,” he explained.

Ajaero concluded that Nigeria can only achieve a society rooted in justice, equity, and shared prosperity through collective determination.