ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected a proposed N100,000 minimum wage, insisting instead on a significantly higher living wage of N1 million, citing worsening inflation and the rising cost of living across the country.
Labour leaders argued that the proposed amount is inadequate to meet basic needs in the current economic environment, where prices of food, transportation, housing, and essential services have surged sharply.
The Nigeria Labour Congress, Nigeria Labour Congress, maintained that Nigerian workers deserve a wage structure that reflects present-day economic realities and protects them from increasing financial hardship.
According to union officials, previous wage adjustments have been quickly eroded by inflation, leaving many workers struggling to survive despite earning regular salaries.
They stressed that the demand for a N1 million minimum wage is intended to reflect a true living wage that can sustain households and restore dignity to public sector workers.
The labour body also criticised what it described as delays and inconsistencies in negotiations with government representatives over wage reforms.
Union leaders warned that failure to reach a fair agreement could lead to heightened industrial tensions and possible nationwide strikes if workers’ demands continue to be ignored.
They further noted that the cost of transportation, electricity, rent, and food items has increased significantly, placing enormous pressure on low and middle-income earners.
Labour representatives insisted that wage negotiations must be based on current economic data rather than outdated benchmarks that no longer reflect reality.
Government officials are yet to issue a detailed response to the revised demand, but discussions are expected to continue in ongoing tripartite negotiations involving labour, employers, and the government.
Economic analysts have expressed concern over the implications of such a high wage demand, warning that it could pose fiscal challenges for both federal and state governments if adopted.
However, labour stakeholders maintain that prioritising workers’ welfare is essential for productivity, stability, and improved service delivery across public institutions.
As negotiations continue, attention remains focused on whether both sides can reach a compromise that balances economic sustainability with workers’ demands for improved living conditions.
