Labour Demands ₦500,000 Minimum Wage Amid Rising Costs

Organised labour, represented by Gbenga Olowoyo, the National Secretary of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), has reiterated its demand for a ₦500,000 minimum wage, reflecting the financial pressures faced by Nigerian workers due to rising living costs. This statement followed a six-hour meeting with the Federal Government focused on workers' welfare and the impact of increasing petrol prices.

The government agreed to provide ₦70,000 in monthly transport support for six months, starting in November. Olowoyo emphasized that this support is a temporary measure while negotiations for a new minimum wage continue.

He expressed optimism about the negotiations, highlighting the need for a tripartite committee to discuss the minimum wage. The agreement is seen as a commitment from the government to address workers' needs, benefiting not just union members but all workers represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress, which has over 40 affiliate unions.

The transport support is expected to run from November 2026 to April 2027.