In response to economic hardship being experienced in the country, the
Nigerian workers may soon earn a new national minimum wage of N100,000 as state governors have begun talks with the Federal Government and organised labour to review the current N70,000 benchmark
The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who disclosed that in a statement on Saturday, said tlgovernors are considering a new minimum wage of N100,000 to cushion the effects of the country’s harsh economic realities on workers.
AbdulRazaq said the proposed wage review is aimed at improving workers’ welfare while ensuring that state governments remain financially capable of meeting their obligations and sustaining development projects.
According to him, consultations are ongoing among state governments, the Federal Government and organised labour to agree on a wage structure that balances workers’ needs with fiscal sustainability.
“State governments recognise the urgent need to improve workers’ welfare in response to the current economic realities facing Nigerians,” he said.
The NGF chairman noted that discussions are focused on boosting workers’ purchasing power without undermining governments’ ability to fund critical infrastructure and public services.
“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 stressed that while workers deserve improved remuneration, policymakers must also consider the financial realities facing subnational governments.
The proposed increase is expected to intensify nationwide debates over wages, inflation and broader economic reforms as Nigerians continue to grapple with soaring food prices, transportation costs and other living expenses.
Nigeria’s current statutory minimum wage stands at N70,000 per month, although some states, including Lagos, Rivers and Imo, reportedly pay above the national benchmark.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress has continued to advocate for a comprehensive salary review, insisting that workers deserve a living wage capable of meeting present-day economic demands rather than one that merely guarantees survival.
“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.”, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said
