Labour leaders have called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s ₦70,000 national minimum wage, arguing that rising inflation and the cost of living have significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power.
The demand was made at the 2026 Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, held to commemorate 88 years of legally recognised trade unionism in Nigeria.
The summit, themed “The Rights of Workers: Decent Work and a Just Economy in Nigeria,” brought together labour leaders, policymakers, workers, employers, civil society organisations and representatives of the National Industrial Court.
Speaking on behalf of Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, NLC Deputy President Amba said the current minimum wage had become inadequate and urged the Federal and state governments to reopen negotiations.
“The current ₦70,000 minimum wage can no longer adequately respond to the realities confronting Nigerian workers, particularly with the rising cost of living.”
Amba said the expiration of the existing wage arrangement made fresh negotiations necessary to establish a compensation framework that reflects prevailing economic conditions.
Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba said workers’ welfare should not be assessed solely by the amount they receive as wages.
He argued that decent employment must also protect workers’ rights, provide social protection and promote meaningful dialogue between labour, employers and government.
“Decent work is not only about wages. It is also about workers’ rights, social protection and meaningful social dialogue between workers, employers and government.”
The summit’s convener and Executive Director of Call a Lawyer, Ekpa Stanley, said the 88th anniversary of trade unionism offered an opportunity to assess the progress made by Nigerian workers and identify areas requiring urgent intervention.
He said the principles of decent work must translate into tangible improvements in workers’ living standards.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, meanwhile, pledged that the state would implement any new national minimum wage agreed upon by the Federal Government and organised labour.
“Whatever is agreed upon at the national level on the minimum wage, Kebbi State will implement,” Idris said.
The governor also promised to advocate for improved wages during discussions at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and commended civil servants for their contributions to governance and national development.
Beyond wages, the summit examined workplace safety, discrimination, inflation and the protection of casual and other non-traditional workers.
As Nigeria marks 88 years of legally recognised trade unionism, labour leaders said the anniversary should renew pressure for policies that guarantee fair compensation, stronger social protection and better working conditions.
They warned that without a wage structure capable of keeping pace with economic realities, decades of workers’ organisation and collective bargaining could lose much of their impact.
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