NLC Rejects Proposed N100,000 Minimum Wage, Says It Falls Short of Workers’ Needs
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dismissed the proposed N100,000 national minimum wage currently being considered by state governors, arguing that it is far below what Nigerian workers need to cope with the country’s worsening economic realities.
Speaking on the issue, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah said the proposed wage fails to reflect the impact of soaring inflation, the depreciation of the naira, rising fuel prices, and the increasing cost of living, all of which have significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power.
Governors Review New Wage Framework
The debate follows remarks by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that governors are reviewing a possible upward adjustment of the national minimum wage, with N100,000 among the figures being considered.
In a statement shared on Facebook, AbdulRazaq explained that the review was prompted by the harsh economic conditions facing workers across the country, including persistent inflation and rising living expenses.
He noted that consultations are ongoing between state governments, the Federal Government, and organised labour to arrive at a wage structure that is fair to workers while remaining financially sustainable for governments at all levels.
NLC Says Proposal Is Inadequate
Despite welcoming efforts to review workers’ wages, the NLC maintained that the proposed N100,000 benchmark is unrealistic given current economic conditions.
According to Upah, Nigerian workers are grappling with severe financial pressures resulting from higher fuel costs, increased electricity tariffs, food inflation, and a general decline in purchasing power.
He argued that the proposed wage does little to address the economic hardship many workers face daily.
Labour Pushes for Higher Wage Benchmark
Upah further stated that a more realistic minimum wage should reflect the true cost of living in today’s Nigeria.
He suggested that, considering prevailing economic realities, a monthly wage closer to N1 million would better match workers’ needs and the sharp rise in the cost of essential goods and services.
The labour leader also pointed to what he described as improved government revenues, citing increased allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and other fiscal gains. He argued that these resources should be used to improve workers’ welfare and living standards.
Rising Tension Over Wage Review
The disagreement comes amid growing calls for another review of the national minimum wage following major economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. These policies have triggered significant increases in transportation costs, food prices, and other basic living expenses.
Nigeria’s current minimum wage of N70,000, approved in 2024 after months of negotiations between labour unions and the government, has faced widespread criticism. Labour groups argue that persistent inflation has rapidly diminished its value, leaving many workers struggling to make ends meet.
