Business
Fuel subsidy: NLC, Affiliates Disagrees over Suspension of Strike
The ongoing controversy over the removal of fuel subsidy appears to have caused a heavy crack within the fold of the labour unions in the country, especially the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC.
Ohibaba.com had reported earlier that the union had earlier announced that it would commence an industrial action effective today, (Wednesday) June 7.
However, after a meeting with the Federal Government, the NLC leadership called off the strike.
The Trade Union Congress, TUC, was the first to toe that line after a similar meeting with the FG, with the NLC absent during the earlier dialogue.
The development has not gone down well with the state chapters of the unions who feel they were not carried along before their leaders reached the agreement with the Federal Government.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila, who led the government delegation, disclosed the resolutions reached with the labour unions after a meeting at the Aso Villa.
According to him, the Federal Government, the TUC and the NLC would establish a joint committee to review the proposal for any wage increase or award and establish a framework and timeline for implementation.
“The Federal Government, the TUC and the NLC would review the World Bank Financed Cash transfer scheme and propose the inclusion of low-income earners in the programme”, the communique reads in part.
A chairman of the NLC in one of the states said their members were not happy with the hasty withdrawal of the industrial action without the Federal Government shifting ground on the main issue.
He spoke after the NLC convened a National Executive Committee, NEC, meeting on Tuesday, to inform their members of the latest development.
The State chairman, who was not pleased with the outcome of the meeting said: “It was a one agenda meeting to brief us on their resolution with the federal government.
“You have seen the communique the national body signed; they have confirmed to us they were part of it. All those things stated therein were the issues they raised before the federal government.
“So we will set up a technical committee that will look at them and come up with a lasting solution, so to speak, that will help to assuage the sufferings of the people with regard to the removal of the fuel subsidy.
“There was nothing much. We were briefed and they informed us that they were part of those items in the communique; that it was their agreement.
“For me and some others also, I expected a situation where the new price regime would have been suspended. The issues that were raised should hold sway but they have to suspend the price regime while this discussion goes on.
“That would have made them to hasten the discussion and come up with a workable agreement. Thereafter, the new price regime can now come in.
“But since they have decided to put the horse before the cart, then let it be. That’s just the resolution as contained in that document. They are meeting on June 19th, it’s on that day that the technical committee will take off.
“Of course, it has to be as soon as possible. It’s not going to be an indefinite thing.”
Recall that the NLC had last Friday directed its members and affiliates to begin nationwide protest and withdrawal of services from Wednesday (today) if the federal government fails to compel the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, to reverse the petrol pump price increase.
On Wednesday last week, the NNPCL announced a new fuel price template nationwide. The effect saw fuel pump prices increase from N197 per litre to over N500 nationwide.
The development followed President Bola Tinubu’s inaugural speech announcing the removal of fuel subsidy.
Tinubu had promised he would stop the controversial scheme if elected president.
He spoke before the February 25 election at a business luncheon with business owners titled: “Business Forward” in Lagos, where he hinted that, no matter how long people protest, it would not stop him from removing fuel subsidies.
He maintained that Nigeria would not continue to subsidise fuel consumption in neighbouring countries.
“How can we subsidise the fuel consumption of Cameroon, Niger, and the Benin Republic. No matter how long you protest, we are going to remove the subsidy,” he said.
Although former President Muhammadu Buhari’s government had announced the subsidy policy would end by June when the budget for the initiative would expire, Tinubu bears the brunt of its implementation.
Prior to the announcement of the suspension of the strike, the Federal Government had approached the National Industrial Court in Abuja seeking an interim order restraining the NLC and the TUC from going on strike as planned, pending the determination of the motion on notice.
Ohibaba.com had reported that the National Industrial Court granted the FG’s application and ordered the Labour unions not to strike.
The FG had submitted that the proposed strike could disrupt economic activities, the health sector and the educational sector.
They also claimed that the strike may gravely affect the larger society and the well-being of the nation at large.
Meanwhile, the TUC has demanded that the “minimum wage should be increased from the current N30,000 to N200,000 before the end of June 2023, with consequential adjustment on the cost of feeding allowance, like feeding, transport, and housing”.
While addressing journalists on Monday, the union’s President, Mr Festus Osifo, and General Secretary, Mr Nuhu Toro called for the immediate implementation of the demands, including a Tax holiday for government and private sector employees earning less than N200,000 or 500USD monthly.
TUC also asked that “A representative of state governors would be a party to any negotiation and must commit to implementing the new minimum wage.”
They also called for introducing PMS Allowance for workers that earn between N200,000 to N500,000 or 500USD to 1,200USD.
The NLC said the authorities should have listened to the poor masses before removing the fuel subsidy.
Prof Oguguo Egwu, the Ebonyi State chairman of the Congress, made the remark in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, on Monday in Abakaliki.
“The increase has led to the suffering of the masses. Imagine paying N550 per litre of fuel in Ebonyi here. Go back to the status quo and let us have room for negotiation. There is a need to listen to the poor.
“The federal government can do it without inflicting injury on citizens. Make sure that the people are not suffering. Have the interest of the masses at heart and not cause injury to them,” Egwu said.
On his part, the Enugu State chairman of the NLC, Comrade Barrister Fabian Nwigbo, said the national body of the NLC would be meeting by 2 pm on Tuesday (yesterday) to deliberate on the communique reached with the federal government.
Nwigbo lamented that the action being taken by the Federal Government, including its meeting with the NLC, is belated because people are already suffering.
He stated that the government should have put in place measures and palliatives to cushion the effect of the new policy.
”The national body has just invited us for a meeting at 2 pm today (Tuesday), and I think it is in line with that information on social media. So we, all of us in different States, have been discussing on our platform, waiting for that meeting to know whether that was what happened in that meeting, and then the way forward.
”But for now, we have not been properly briefed. I only got a message this morning inviting me to a virtual meeting by 2 pm. at the national office.
“So the practice is that since we had our emergency NEC last Friday, we were told not to do anything other than issues raised and agreed upon during that meeting, one may not comfortably discuss those items in that communique without hearing from the national.
”I cannot say exactly whether they (States) are carried along because I don’t have that privilege of that information. However, it is normal for state governments to wait and decide from agreements between labour or critical stakeholders and the federal government.
“So states will not come out now to say, remove fuel subsidy or don’t remove fuel subsidy, or we will do this or do that. They are waiting for that to be concluded at the national level. And after that decision, they will be given direction on what to do.
“I am aware that the presidency is saying that it has discussed with the Governors and that discussion will continue regarding what should be the palliatives that will help cushion the effect of this fuel subsidy removal.
“But to me, those things are belated. If you want to remove fuel subsidies, after removing them, you start talking about how to improve things for people; it is belated.
“Ordinarily, even with the communique that is coming now, issues ought to have been discussed and the communique in place before he removed the fuel subsidy.
”What I am saying in effect is that whatever they are doing now, even the meeting between the NLC and government representatives, for me, it’s belated; people are already suffering.
“And you know, in Nigeria, once the commodities prices have already stepped up, they can never come down, no matter what you decide. But there is nothing we can do; we will continue.
“If we succeed in our actions by his grace, the government may decide to put in our agreement certain things that may help people survive this harsh condition that the federal government has put everybody into.”
However, the Director-General of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, MINILS, Ilorin, Comrade Issa Aremu, hailed the ongoing dialogue between FG and the Labour union.
Comrade Aremu said the current policy debate is good for national development, adding that what is needed is to “work out win-win options” for the downstream petroleum sector in particular and Nigeria as a whole.
He expressed optimism that through the exchange of facts, negotiations and compromises, both the government and labour would find common ground for the inevitable reform of the downstream petroleum sector, which he said the sector unions, namely PENGASSAN and NUPENG, have been pushing for years.
“Neither policy reversal nor mass protest is an option, but genuine negotiation and social dialogue would make the deregulation policy a reality without compromising the welfare of the citizens with respect to welfare and securing jobs,” he said.
Comrade Aremu commended the initiative of President Bola Tinubu for meeting with labour leaders, which he described as “not only labour friendly but a leader that is accessible and open to engagement”.
He challenged labour and civil society to reciprocate the presidential gesture with creative options to protect public and private jobs.
Meanwhile, the NLC says it has rejected the ruling of the National Industrial Court, NIC, favouring the Federal Government against the interest of the masses and workers in the country.
Mr Joe Ajaero, NLC President said this in a communique jointly signed with Mr Emmanuel Ugboaja, General Secretary of the Congress at the end of an emergency National Executive Council, NEC, meeting on Tuesday in Abuja.
It said that the NEC meeting was called to discuss the outcome of the dialogue between the NLC and the Federal Government on the petroleum product price hike.
The NLC said the NEC in session resolved that there was a need to show the government that it was important to comply with laid down laws and court rulings.
“Especially as it concerns obedience to the rulings of the Courts and their brazen disregard to the 2023 Appropriation Act.
“To therefore support and accept the decision of the leadership of Congress to suspend the proposed strike action in compliance with the flawed rulings of the NIC.
“Also to allow negotiations to flow freely and enable final agreement during or after the 19th June, 2023, negotiation round with the federal government.
“To however register in strongest terms its disgust and disapproval with the ruling of the NIC for its continuous weaponization of the instrument of Exparte injunction in favour of the government.
“That it is against the interests of Nigerian workers in defiance of the position of the Supreme Court on the use of this instrument,” the communique read.
Congress further stated that all Affiliates and State Councils of Congress are hereby directed to suspend further action and mobilisation until the outcome of the final negotiations.
The communiqué commended all Affiliates and State Councils on their robust mobilisation towards a successful nationwide strike and to also remain vigilant in case there is a need to continue.
Business
“Only 37% of Nigerian roads are in good condition ” – MAN
The Nigerian government holds the primary responsibility for creating an enabling environment to unlock the manufacturing sector’s potential.
L-R: MD Coleman Wires and Cables industries limited, Mr. George Onafowokan, DG MAN, Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, and Mr. Adetunji Aderinto, founder Zetamind consulting limited at a conference organized by Business Day in Lagos on Thursday.
“Only 37 percent of Nigerian roads are in good condition, which continues to increase production and transportation costs, making Nigerian products less competitive.”
“Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director – General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), gave this statistics during the 2025 Manufacturing Conference organized by BusinessDay in Lagos, with the theme: “Unlocking Nigeria’s Manufacturing Potential: Strategies for Sustainable Growth Amid Economic Turbulence.”
Ajayi-Kadir noted that while recent improvements in infrastructure is commendable, there’s need for investing significantly in critical transport infrastructure — roads, ports, and industrial corridors — to reduce logistics bottlenecks and improve market access.
He stated, “The Nigerian government holds the primary responsibility for creating an enabling environment to unlock the manufacturing sector’s potential.
This requires strategic action across infrastructure, fiscal policy, and regional integration.”
Ajayi-Kadir acknowledged the passage of four tax reform bills aimed at streamlining the tax system and praised the government’s “Nigeria First Policy.”
However, he emphasized the need for swift and effective implementation.
He further recommended making the Nigeria First Policy a binding law, with penalties for violators, to ensure transparency, public awareness, and enforcement.
Ajayi-Kadir further called for establishing structured platforms for regular consultations with manufacturers to align policies with industry needs.
“There is need for setting up systems for timely and relevant export data sharing through embassies, trade attachés, and relevant agencies to help manufacturers access global markets.
Also ensuring consistent and transparent policy-making to boost investor confidence and foster long-term growth.”
The Managing Director of Coleman Wires and Cables Industries Limited, Mr. George Onafowokan, noted that more foreign investors are entering Nigeria to establish businesses despite prevailing economic challenges, even as some local businesses continue to complain about the operating environment.
He urged Nigerian manufacturers to look inward and explore the abundant opportunities within the country to boost their enterprises.
In the same vein, Adetunji Aderinto, founder of Zetamind Consulting Limited and a fellow panelist, remarked that foreign investors often recognize prospects in the Nigerian market that many local manufacturers overlook.
He advised manufacturers to reduce costs through technology adoption and data utilization.
“Some manufacturers shut down operations because they don’t understand what their customers need. They need to increase market share and strengthen their supply chains,” Aderinto added.
The Director -General of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr. Olusola Obadimu, called on the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to take urgent steps to curb inflation.
He also urged state governments to focus more on people-centric development rather than internally generated revenue alone.
The panelists collectively encouraged Nigerians to patronize locally made products and commended the Federal Government’s efforts in promoting the “Buy Nigeria” campaign.
Business
Complete List of Documents You Need to Buy Land in Lagos by Dennis Isong
And if you’re serious about doing it right, reach out to someone who knows the Lagos real estate landscape like the back of his hand. Someone like, well… me.
Always confirm documents from the Lagos State Land Registry and avoid cash-only deals without paperwork.
Buying land in Lagos can be a rewarding move—whether you’re planning to build a home, invest for the future, or start a commercial project.
But while the opportunities are exciting, the process isn’t as straightforward as just paying and getting a receipt.
Lagos, like many parts of Nigeria, has its peculiar legal and property documentation system, and understanding this system can be the difference between owning your land and losing your hard-earned money.
If you’re thinking about land ownership in this dynamic city, then knowing the documents you need to buy land in Lagos is not just helpful—it’s essential.
These documents are your only legal shield in a city where land disputes and multiple claims are far too common.
Let’s break it all down in a way that’s easy to understand.
First Things First: Why Documentation Matters
In Lagos, land ownership is often a maze.
There’s family land, government-acquired land, excised land, and committed land. Many buyers have found themselves entangled in court cases or financial loss simply because they didn’t know what papers to ask for.
Documents give your land transaction structure and legality. Without them, your ownership is shaky at best and fraudulent at worst.
Now let’s walk through the key documents you must check for—and get—before buying land in Lagos.
The Survey Plan
This is the starting point. A survey plan shows the exact location and measurements of the land. It tells you where the land is and how big it is.
More importantly, it helps confirm if the land falls within a government-acquired or committed area.
Government-acquired lands are off-limits unless the land has been officially released (excised).
A verified survey plan will also tell you whether the land has been registered before.
To be on the safe side, always take the survey plan to a registered surveyor or the Lagos State Surveyor General’s office for charting.
That way, you know you’re not buying into trouble.
The Deed of Assignment
when land changes hands—from seller to buyer—a Deed of Assignment is what captures that transfer.
This document states the details of the transaction: who sold it, who bought it, the size of the land, the location, and the terms of sale.
It must also indicate the history of ownership—how the seller came to own the land in the first place.
This document is legally powerful and must be prepared by a property lawyer. After signing, it should be submitted for Governor’s Consent, which we’ll explain shortly.
A Deed of Assignment without proper registration is like buying a car and not transferring the papers—ownership can easily be disputed.
The Certificate of Occupancy (C of O)
Now, this is one of the most talked-about property documents in Lagos.
The Certificate of Occupancy, often called the “C of O,” is proof that the government officially recognizes someone’s right to occupy a piece of land for 99 years.
If a land has a C of O, it means the land has been titled and recognized by the Lagos State Government.
Not all lands have this document, and that doesn’t always mean it’s illegal—but buying land with a valid C of O is the safest route.
It reduces the risk of future government interference and makes getting loans or building approvals easier. However, it’s important to confirm that the C of O truly belongs to the land you’re buying. Cross-check with the Ministry of Lands to be sure.
The Governor’s Consent
This one often confuses people. If a land already has a C of O and is being sold to someone else, the new buyer must obtain the Governor’s Consent.
Why? Because under Nigerian land law, no land transaction is considered fully legal without the consent of the Governor of the state.
The Governor’s Consent is not a casual formality—it’s a legal requirement. Without it, the sale remains incomplete in the eyes of the law. It’s part of what turns your Deed of Assignment into a fully recognized document.
The Gazette
Now, not all lands in Lagos are initially free from government acquisition. Some are acquired by the government but later released to the original landowners—often communities—through a formal process.
When this happens, the release is published in an official record called a Gazette.
A Gazette shows that the land has been excised, meaning it is no longer under government acquisition and can now be owned and sold legally. If the land you’re planning to buy falls under this category, ask for the Gazette and verify it.
Buying land with a valid Gazette is better than buying land with nothing at all, but still not as solid as a C of O.
The Receipt
Yes, it sounds basic, but the purchase receipt is also important. It shows that money has exchanged hands and helps to track the financial side of the transaction.
It includes the date of purchase, the amount paid, the names of both parties, and the description of the land.
While a receipt alone doesn’t mean you now own land, it complements your other documents—especially the Deed of Assignment.
The Contract of Sale
This is sometimes prepared before the Deed of Assignment. It outlines the agreement between both parties before the land is officially transferred. Think of it as a promise-to-sell document.
It usually spells out payment terms (e.g., installments), timelines, and other conditions of the sale.
It’s useful in cases where payment is staggered over time or where the buyer needs a few months to perfect documents.
However, it is not a substitute for the Deed of Assignment.
Family or Community Consent (if it’s family land)
If you’re buying land from a family or community—which is still common in Lagos—you must get the consent of all principal family members or the land-owning community heads.
This is very important. If just one person signs and others later disagree, your ownership could be challenged.
Many people have found themselves battling “omo onile” (land touts or family claimants) simply because they didn’t get proper family or community consent.
Ensure a family resolution or legal confirmation is obtained.
Government Allocation Letter (for government schemes)
If you’re buying land from a government housing scheme or state-owned development, you’ll receive a Government Allocation Letter. This letter assigns the land to you and states the terms under which you can occupy it.
This letter usually comes before the C of O is issued, and it’s your first legal evidence of land allocation.
It is very common in places like Lekki and other government-developed areas in Lagos.
Conclusion: Don’t Just Buy Land—Buy Peace of Mind
Buying land in Lagos is a serious investment. And while the market is full of promises, it’s also full of pitfalls. Knowing the documents you need to buy land in Lagos can help you avoid heartache and financial loss.
Whether you’re buying land with a C of O, a Gazette, or through a Deed of Assignment, make sure everything is checked, verified, and registered properly.
Don’t just depend on what the seller says. Involve professionals—real estate lawyers, surveyors, and agents who understand Lagos terrain.
Always confirm documents from the Lagos State Land Registry and avoid cash-only deals without paperwork.
The right documents protect your ownership today and into the future.
If you’re ever in doubt, ask questions.
And if you’re serious about doing it right, reach out to someone who knows the Lagos real estate landscape like the back of his hand. Someone like, well… me.
Business
EFCC boss fingers insider-aided cyber attacks on Nigerian banks
…Bank employees have played a crucial role in granting unauthorized access to hackers operating from countries including the United States and Eastern Europe.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Barrister Ola Olukoyede, has raised concerns over a wave of sophisticated cyberattacks targeting Nigerian banks, revealing that insiders are collaborating with foreign hackers to siphon off billions of naira.
Olukoyede spoke on TVC News’ Journalists Hangout and disclosed that six commercial banks have been hit by coordinated cyber intrusions involving a syndicate of local and international criminals exploiting internal vulnerability.
He emphasised that compromised bank employees have played a crucial role in granting unauthorized access to hackers operating from countries including the United States and Eastern Europe.
” Once access is gained, the attackers swiftly transfer large sums of money within seconds.
“These are highly coordinated attacks, and insiders play a critical role. In some cases, billions were moved in a matter of moments, but we were able to recover N9.7 billion, N6.7 billion, and N3.7 billion in three separate incidents,” said Olukoyede.
He clarified that while the attacks are severe, the institutions are not to blame. Rather, the breaches stem from the actions of rogue staff.
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