As public hearings kick off in Lagos, Kano, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Adamawa, and Abuja today, there are strong indications that organized labor will advocate for a ₦500,000 minimum wage.
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, had hinted at the possibility of pushing for a new minimum wage of up to ₦1 million if inflation persists. However, based on proposals received from state chapters, the NLC may propose ₦500,000 during the ongoing meetings.
The hearings, spanning all six geopolitical zones, aim to gather inputs from various stakeholders, including labor unions, state governors, ministers, civil society groups, and the private sector. Each zone’s meeting will be chaired by prominent figures like Joe Ajaero and Minister of Finance Wale Edun.
The call for a new minimum wage comes against the backdrop of rising living costs, worsened by recent economic policies. Workers, frustrated by the erosion of their purchasing power, demand a wage increase to meet basic needs.
State chapters of Trade Union Congress (TUC) also emphasize the need for a minimum wage review, advocating for an equitable wage structure across states while aligning with international labor standards.
While labor leaders articulate their demands, concerns linger over delayed implementation and possible repercussions of an unmet wage demand. State governments weigh in on the debate, contemplating the relocation of minimum wage jurisdiction from the exclusive to the concurrent list.
As the nation deliberates on wage reform, the outcome of these hearings will shape the future of labor relations in Nigeria, influencing not only workers’ livelihoods but also broader economic dynamics.
