The approval followed a conciliation meeting between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Abuja on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, amid ongoing discussions over workers’ welfare, rising living costs and outstanding agreements.

According to the resolutions reached at the meeting, the transport allowance will run from November 2026 for six months. However, the government has yet to provide specific details on the payment dates or the administrative arrangements for disbursing the funds.

The agreement also provides for the payment of outstanding peculiar allowance arrears, effective from May 1, 2026. The arrears are expected to be paid in three equal monthly instalments beginning in November.

In addition, the government agreed to settle 19 months of outstanding allowances owed to health workers within three months, starting in December 2026.

The meeting was attended by key government officials and labour representatives, including Minister of Labour and Employment Muhammad Dingyadi and NLC President Joe Ajaero.

Despite the agreement on the transport allowance and other welfare measures, both parties failed to reach an agreement on the effective date for implementing the national minimum wage. However, they agreed to establish a Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee and begin discussions immediately.

The issue of tax relief for workers was also referred for further consideration, while relevant agencies are expected to continue reviewing outstanding allowances for agricultural officers and health professionals.

The NLC has repeatedly called for measures to improve workers’ welfare amid rising living costs. The latest agreement represents a temporary financial intervention, but its impact will depend on effective implementation and progress on the outstanding issues.