Labour Leaders Demand New ₦70,000 Minimum Wage, Say Current Rate No Longer Sufficient

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a review of the national minimum wage, saying the current ₦70,000 rate can no longer meet the basic needs of workers.

At a summit in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, labour leaders emphasized the importance of decent work and a just economy in Nigeria. The summit, themed "The Rights of Workers: Decent Work and a Just Economy in Nigeria," brought together labour leaders, government officials, workers, employers, civil society organizations, and representatives of the National Industrial Court.

Adewale Adeyanju, Deputy President of the NLC, said the current minimum wage has been overtaken by economic realities, making it difficult for workers to meet their basic needs. "The current ₦70,000 minimum wage can no longer adequately respond to the realities confronting Nigerian workers, particularly with the rising cost of living," he said.

Labour leaders also raised concerns over inflation, rising living costs, workplace safety, discrimination, job insecurity, and the protection of casual and non-traditional workers. They emphasized the need for stronger enforcement of labour laws, improved workplace safety, and greater attention to workers operating outside the traditional formal employment structure.

Former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Ayuba Wabba, stressed that decent work is not only about wages but also about workers' rights, social protection, and effective dialogue. "Decent work is not only about wages. It is also about workers' rights, social protection and meaningful social dialogue between workers, employers and government," he said.

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, assured workers in the state that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage agreed upon by the Federal Government. The governor commended civil servants for their contributions to governance and the development of the state.

Labour leaders plan to continue negotiations with the Federal and State Governments to ensure that workers' rights and welfare are prioritized. The summit ended with goodwill messages from labour leaders, affiliate unions, and representatives of the National Industrial Court, while awards were presented to distinguished personalities for their contributions to workers' welfare and development.