Labour Unions Demand Minimum Wage Review Amid Inflation

The Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress are set to engage with the federal government to discuss a review of the minimum wage, which is currently ₦70,000, as established by law on July 18, 2024, and took effect on July 29, 2024. The unions argue that the existing wage framework does not reflect the current economic realities, particularly with the sharp increases in food, transport, housing, and healthcare costs.

They have rejected proposals to tax the minimum wage, stating that this would impose an additional fiscal burden on low-income earners. The unions are pushing for a genuine living wage that addresses the erosion of real income due to inflation.

The next review of the minimum wage is scheduled for January 2026, following a shift from a previous five-year review cycle to a three-year cycle. Labour leaders are urging the federal and state governments to introduce short-term relief measures while negotiations are ongoing to prevent delays that have hindered past reviews.