By JOAN NWAGWU

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.

This was contained in a communiqué jointly signed by Mr Festus Osifo, TUC President, and Mr Nuhu Toro, Secretary-General, and issued on Monday in Abuja at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.

The congress said it would embark on nationwide protest, if there was no improvement.

The congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.

“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.

“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.

“The government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.

The congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.

It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.

According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.

It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.

The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.

It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.

“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.

The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.

On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.

The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.

It urged governments at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.

“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added. (NAN)