Oshiomhole Praises Tinubu for ₦70,000 Transport Allowance to Workers

In a recent interview, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, lauded President Bola Tinubu for demonstrating a significant commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers through the introduction of a ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance. This allowance, which is set to commence in November 2026, was approved following discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and is intended to provide financial relief for workers across all sectors.

Oshiomhole highlighted that the new allowance effectively doubles the previous monthly income for many workers, stating, "If a man who was on ₦70,000 now is given ₦70,000 addition that makes it ₦140,000 for him, it’s a hundred percent increase. If you know what ₦10,000 means for the real masses, you’ll appreciate that Tinubu has shown that he cares.” His remarks underscore a belief that this intervention will have a meaningful impact on the daily lives of workers.

Despite the positive reception from some quarters, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has voiced strong opposition to the allowance, calling it a temporary measure that does not address the underlying need for a permanent salary increase. The TUC insists that workers require more than just temporary relief, advocating for substantial adjustments to their salaries to keep pace with inflation and rising living costs.

Oshiomhole also took the opportunity to critique past administrations, particularly that of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, under which he alleged that workers' salaries were not consistently paid. This criticism comes as Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, which Oshiomhole asserts will present a critical choice for the electorate regarding their leadership.