Nigeria’s organised labour movement has announced plans to begin fresh negotiations with the Federal Government over a review of the national minimum wage, arguing that the current salary structure no longer reflects the country's economic realities amid persistent inflation and rising living expenses.
The move was disclosed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) during the 114th International Labour Conference held in Geneva, Switzerland. Labour leaders said Nigerian workers are facing increasing hardship due to soaring prices of food, transportation, housing, healthcare and other essential services, which have significantly weakened the purchasing power of citizens.
According to the unions, discussions on a new wage framework should commence immediately to ensure that workers receive what they described as a “genuine living wage” capable of meeting present-day economic demands. They stressed that the existing minimum wage structure is no longer sufficient in the face of worsening inflation and currency depreciation.
Nigeria’s current minimum wage of ₦70,000 came into effect in July 2024 following an agreement between organised labour and the Federal Government. While the original arrangement provided for wage reviews every three years, the Federal Government later revised the framework in January 2025, reducing the review period to two years and effectively making 2026 the next review cycle.
Labour leaders said they intend to formally write to the government upon their return from Geneva, requesting the commencement of negotiations ahead of the July 2026 deadline. They noted that starting the process early would help avoid the prolonged delays that have characterised previous minimum wage reviews.
The unions also voiced strong opposition to any proposal that could subject the minimum wage to taxation or place additional financial burdens on low-income earners. They argued that such measures would worsen poverty levels and further strain workers already struggling with the rising cost of living.
Beyond wage concerns, organised labour called on federal and state governments to introduce temporary relief measures to cushion the effects of economic hardship while negotiations are ongoing. The unions warned that continued delays in addressing workers’ welfare could heighten industrial tensions across the country.
The labour movement also used the international platform to highlight broader national challenges, including insecurity, unemployment and increasing poverty. According to the unions, widespread insecurity has disrupted economic activities, affected productivity and made daily commuting unsafe for many workers.
Labour leaders further expressed concern over the growing number of Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty, insisting that despite ongoing economic reforms, many citizens have yet to experience meaningful improvements in their living conditions. They maintained that the upcoming wage review presents an opportunity for the government to adopt policies that better protect workers and improve their standard of living.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the unions disclosed plans to develop a charter of demands that will guide their engagement with political actors. They said support would be given only to leaders and candidates who demonstrate commitment to improved security, better public services, labour rights protection and meaningful wage reforms.
As the review window approaches, organised labour insists that the outcome of the negotiations will determine whether Nigerian workers secure a wage structure capable of matching current economic realities or continue to struggle under mounting financial pressures.
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