Abati calls FG's ₦70k transport allowance discriminatory — excludes private sector workers

Former presidential aide Reuben Abati has slammed the Federal Government's ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance for public servants as discriminatory, arguing it leaves out private sector workers facing identical fuel costs. Speaking on Arise TV's Morning Show Wednesday, Abati questioned why the intervention targets only public service employees when "we all go to the same market" and buy fuel at the same high prices.

The allowance, approved Tuesday after a conciliation meeting with the Nigeria Labour Congress in Abuja, takes effect November 2026 and runs for six months. It covers federal, state, and local government workers alongside outstanding welfare arrears. Abati also noted the government's directive to NNPC to address fuel prices "has not even happened" — Nigerians haven't seen any relief.

Private sector employees, who make up the bulk of Nigeria's workforce, get nothing from this package. Transport unions have already signaled fare increases amid persistent petrol prices above ₦600/liter. The NLC agreement covers only organised labour in public service.

If you work in the private sector, your employer decides whether to adjust salaries or transport support. No federal mandate exists. Will you push your HR for a transport review, factor commute costs into your next salary negotiation, or explore remote work options where possible?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/10/28/tinubus-n70000-transport-allowance-discriminatory-reuben-abati/