State governors, the Federal Government and organised labour are considering a proposal to increase Nigeria’s minimum wage to N100,000 as part of efforts to cushion the impact of rising inflation and worsening economic conditions on workers across the country.
The development was disclosed on Saturday by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, during a Sallah visit to President Bola Tinubu.
AbdulRazaq said consultations were ongoing among state governments, the Federal Government and labour unions on a possible review of workers’ salaries, less than two years after the implementation of the current N70,000 minimum wage.
According to him, governors are aware of the increasing economic challenges confronting public sector workers and the need to establish a wage structure that reflects current realities.
“State governments recognise the urgent need to improve workers’ welfare in response to the current economic realities facing Nigerians,” he said.
The NGF chairman explained that discussions are aimed at reaching a consensus that would improve workers’ earnings while safeguarding the financial stability of state governments.
“We are actively engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to arrive at a wage structure that is fair to workers and sustainable for government finances,” AbdulRazaq stated.
He noted that policymakers face the challenge of balancing improved purchasing power for workers with the need for governments to continue funding infrastructure projects, social services and other development programmes.
“The goal is to improve the living conditions of workers while ensuring that states can continue to meet their obligations and sustain development projects that directly impact citizens,” he added.
The disclosure is expected to reignite nationwide debate over wages, inflation and economic reforms as millions of Nigerians continue to grapple with soaring food prices, transportation costs and utility expenses.
For many workers, the current wage structure has become increasingly inadequate in meeting daily living costs, prompting sustained calls for a comprehensive salary review.
Labour unions have consistently argued that workers’ wages should reflect prevailing economic conditions and guarantee a decent standard of living rather than merely serving as a means of survival.
Although no final agreement has been reached, the emergence of a N100,000 benchmark represents the clearest indication yet that government officials are considering a fresh upward review of workers’ pay.
About the Author
