By Opeyemi Adelakun
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced plans to commence discussions with the Federal Government on the review of the national minimum wage, citing worsening economic conditions and the declining purchasing power of Nigerian workers.
The labour unions said the current minimum wage structure no longer reflects prevailing economic realities, particularly amid rising inflation, increasing transportation costs, expensive healthcare services, and soaring food prices.
Speaking during the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, labour leaders stressed the need for a new wage framework that would guarantee workers a living wage capable of meeting basic needs.
According to the unions, the current N70,000 minimum wage, which came into effect in July 2024, is due for review under the government’s revised wage framework that provides for a two-year review cycle.
The labour movement disclosed that it would formally notify the Federal Government of its intention to begin negotiations ahead of the July 2026 review deadline in order to avoid delays that have characterised previous wage adjustment processes.
The unions also rejected any proposal to impose taxes on the minimum wage, arguing that such measures would further worsen the economic hardship facing low-income earners.
They maintained that Nigerian workers are grappling with the combined effects of inflation, currency depreciation, and increasing costs of essential goods and services, adding that any new wage arrangement must be designed to protect workers from further erosion of their incomes.
Beyond wage-related concerns, the labour leaders raised alarm over the country’s worsening security situation, unemployment rate, and growing poverty levels, noting that insecurity in several parts of the country continues to threaten workers’ safety and livelihoods.
The unions called on governments at all levels to introduce immediate relief measures while negotiations are ongoing and urged policymakers to prioritise workers’ welfare in efforts to stabilise the economy.
They further stated that organised labour would continue to engage political leaders and stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that only candidates committed to workers’ welfare, improved security, and respect for labour rights would earn their support.
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