The Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have agreed on a ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for workers for six months, alongside the payment of 19 months’ outstanding allowances owed to health workers.
The agreement was reached at a conciliation meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, following discussions on the rising cost of living, minimum wage implementation, fuel prices and workers’ welfare.
Under the agreement, the transport intervention will commence in November 2026 and cover all levels of government.
The government also approved the payment of peculiar allowances with effect from May 1, 2026. The outstanding arrears are expected to be paid in three equal monthly instalments beginning in November.
Similarly, the 19 months’ outstanding allowances owed to health workers will be settled within three months, starting in December 2026.
The meeting also agreed that the Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee would be constituted immediately and begin work. However, both parties remained divided over the effective date for implementing the new minimum wage.
On tax relief for workers, the meeting resolved to refer the matter to the National Executive Council, noting that taxation is a statutory issue.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has submitted the list of beneficiaries and cost implications of the proposed hazard allowance for agricultural officers to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission for verification.
The verification is expected to be completed within two weeks, after which the commission will issue an implementation template.
The commission is also expected to complete an updated assessment of the cost implications of the proposed Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS) adjustment within three weeks. The assessment will guide the Presidential Committee on Salaries in reaching a decision.
The Federal Government and the NLC urged state and local governments to participate in the intervention and implement the agreed measures.
Both parties also agreed to reconvene after one month to review progress on implementation.
The agreement was signed on behalf of the Federal Government by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, alongside other government officials. The NLC was represented by its president, Joe Ajaero, while Olowoyo Gbenga signed for the Joint National Public Service Negotiation Council.