Organised labour in Nigeria has announced plans to commence negotiations with the Federal Government for a new national minimum wage in July 2026, citing the rising cost of living and economic realities facing Nigerian workers.
The position was jointly presented by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress during a press briefing held on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
Labour leaders argued that the current ₦70,000 minimum wage has been overtaken by prevailing economic conditions and can no longer adequately meet the basic needs of workers across the country.
The unions noted that increasing inflation and the high cost of essential goods and services have significantly reduced the purchasing power of Nigerian workers, making a wage review necessary.
They also welcomed recent comments from state governors acknowledging that the current wage structure is insufficient but cautioned against announcing new figures outside the established negotiation framework.
According to labour representatives, all stakeholders should allow the official negotiation process to run its course to ensure a fair and sustainable outcome for both workers and government.
The unions further commended the Federal Government for restoring the payment of gratuities to retirees but called for the prompt settlement of outstanding arrears owed to beneficiaries.
The development follows recent remarks by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who disclosed that state governors support a proposed national minimum wage of ₦100,000.
AbdulRazaq stated that governors recognize the need to improve workers’ welfare in the face of current economic challenges and are engaging with the Federal Government and labour unions to reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
The upcoming negotiations are expected to play a significant role in shaping discussions around workers’ welfare, inflation management, and broader economic reforms in Nigeria.
