Labour Leaders Call for Review of Minimum Wage Amid Rising Cost of Living
Labour leaders have called for an urgent reassessment of Nigeria’s national minimum wage, stating that the current pay structure no longer reflects prevailing economic conditions and rising living costs.
The demand was made during the 2026 Workers’ Rights Summit held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State. The event, which marked 88 years of formal trade unionism in the country, brought together key stakeholders including labour representatives, government officials, employers, and civil society groups to discuss issues affecting workers.
Union representatives identified the minimum wage as a major concern, noting that increasing inflation and higher prices of goods and services have significantly reduced workers’ purchasing power. They stressed the need for fresh negotiations with federal and state authorities to establish a more realistic wage framework.
Labour leaders also highlighted that workers’ welfare should extend beyond salary levels to include broader issues such as social protection, workplace rights, and constructive engagement between employees, employers, and government institutions.
Organisers of the summit described the anniversary as an opportunity to review progress made in advancing workers’ rights while addressing persistent challenges within the labour sector. They emphasized the importance of translating policy commitments into tangible improvements in workers’ living and working conditions.
The Kebbi State Government expressed readiness to implement any new wage structure agreed at the national level and pledged to support discussions aimed at improving workers’ welfare.
Participants at the summit also examined other concerns affecting the workforce, including workplace safety, discrimination, and the conditions of informal and non-traditional workers.
