Labour leaders in Nigeria have renewed calls for an upward review of the national minimum wage, arguing that the current N70,000 benchmark no longer reflects the economic realities facing workers.
Drivetvnews gathered that the demand was made on Friday during the Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit 2026 in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. The event was organised to mark 88 years of workers’ organisation and trade unionism in Nigeria.
The summit, themed “The Rights of Workers: Decent Work and a Just Economy in Nigeria,” brought together labour leaders, government representatives, employers, workers, civil society groups and officials of the National Industrial Court.
Participants examined issues affecting workers across the country, including wages, inflation, rising living costs, workplace safety, discrimination, job security and the protection of casual and other non-traditional workers.
Representing the Nigeria Labour Congress President, Joe Ajaero, at the event, NLC Deputy President Audu Amba identified the minimum wage as one of the most pressing concerns confronting Nigerian workers.
Amba said the N70,000 wage had been eroded by prevailing economic conditions and was no longer sufficient to meet workers’ basic needs.
He argued that the expiration of the existing wage arrangement made fresh negotiations between labour and both federal and state governments necessary.
He urged the authorities to consider a new wage structure capable of reflecting the current cost of living and economic conditions.
The summit’s convener and Executive Director of Call a Lawyer, Ekpa Stanley, said the gathering was intended to go beyond celebrating the history of trade unionism by examining the progress made and the challenges that still require attention.
Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba also stressed that decent work goes beyond improved salaries.
According to Wabba, workers must also have their rights protected, enjoy social security and participate in meaningful dialogue with employers and government.
He called for policies that would protect workers’ dignity, improve job security and strengthen social protection, particularly as households continue to face economic pressure.
Meanwhile, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, assured workers in the state that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage approved through negotiations at the federal level.
Idris also pledged to advocate for improved remuneration for workers during engagements with the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
The governor commended civil servants for their contributions to the development and administration of Kebbi State, reiterating his commitment to implementing any nationally agreed wage increase.
The assurance comes amid growing concerns from labour organisations that the current minimum wage has become inadequate because of rising prices of food, transportation and other essential goods and services.
