SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has defended President Bola Tinubu’s administration over its handling of workers’ welfare, arguing that the Federal Government’s approval of a ₦70,000 monthly transport allowance demonstrates that the President is concerned about the financial struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
Oshiomhole made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, where he assessed the administration’s performance and urged Nigerians to acknowledge what he described as positive government interventions.
Using the allowance to illustrate his argument, the former Edo State governor noted that workers earning ₦70,000 who receive an additional ₦70,000 would effectively enjoy a 100 per cent increase in their monthly income.
He maintained that the value of such financial support should not be underestimated, particularly for low-income earners struggling with the rising cost of living.
“I think this government is doing well. If a man who was on ₦70,000 now is given ₦70,000 in addition, that makes it ₦140,000 for him; it’s a hundred percent increase,” he said.
The Federal Government had approved the six-month transport intervention for workers across different levels, beginning in November 2026, following discussions with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on October 27.
The agreement also provides for the settlement of outstanding peculiar allowances in three equal monthly installments.
However, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has rejected the temporary transport support, arguing that workers require a permanent salary increase rather than short-term financial relief.
Oshiomhole also turned his attention to the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, under which Atiku Abubakar served as vice-president. He criticized its handling of workers’ salaries and used the comparison to defend Tinubu’s economic direction.
Looking ahead to the 2027 presidential election, the senator framed the contest as a choice between Tinubu’s economic reforms and the policies associated with opposition figures.
He praised Tinubu for unifying Nigeria’s exchange rate while accusing the previous administration of maintaining multiple exchange rates that allegedly benefited individuals with privileged access.
He also criticized Peter Obi, accusing the former Anambra governor of failing to provide a convincing alternative to Tinubu’s economic policies.
Oshiomhole argued that Tinubu should be given another opportunity to consolidate his reforms, rather than bringing in a new leader who would have to start learning the demands of the presidency.
His comments come amid growing national debate over the impact of the government’s economic policies, particularly the rising cost of living and the ability of workers to cope with increasing expenses
While the senator sees the ₦70,000 intervention as evidence of the president’s concern for workers, the disagreement among labor unions highlights a broader question: whether temporary allowances can provide lasting relief in an economy where many households continue to struggle with the cost of basic necessities.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
Email: snowmediaconnect@gmail.com
