The push for an upward review of Nigeria’s minimum wage gathered momentum on Workers’ Day, as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) renewed its demand for a 120 per cent increase to N154,000, with backing from the Obidient Movement.
The current minimum wage, raised from N30,000 to N70,000 in July 2024, is increasingly viewed by labour leaders as inadequate in the face of rising inflation and living costs. In a Workers’ Day message issued in Abuja, the Obidient Movement’s National Coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, urged the Federal Government to urgently implement the proposed increase, stressing that the existing wage no longer reflects economic realities.
Tanko highlighted that over 116 million Nigerians fall within the working-age population, underscoring the broad impact of wage policies. He argued that despite the size and contribution of the labour force, recent economic policies have not translated into improved welfare, pointing to rising unemployment and job losses.
He also expressed concern over Nigeria’s growing debt burden, warning that escalating debt servicing could further strain the economy if not carefully managed. Nevertheless, he maintained that targeted policy reforms particularly those focused on workers’ welfare, tax relief, housing support, and improved working conditions could drive economic recovery.
Similarly, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasised that wages must reflect real purchasing power rather than nominal figures, noting that insecurity and poverty continue to undermine job quality and productivity.
He also drew attention to the challenges faced by workers in the informal sector, many of whom lack pensions and job security.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC), through its President Festus Osifo, called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to address poverty and insecurity, insisting that decent work conditions for Nigerian workers remain non-negotiable.
