The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has revealed that state governors are proposing a new national minimum wage of ₦100,000 as part of continued efforts to improve the welfare of workers and address the rising cost of living across the country.
NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, disclosed the proposal in a statement shared with the state government, noting that the move was driven by persistent inflation, increasing cost of living and increasing financial burden on Nigerian workers.
He said the state government recognizes the need to strengthen workers’ purchasing power in response to current economic realities, while keeping wage adjustments fiscally sustainable.
Abdulrazaq said governors are currently working with the federal government and trade unions to reach an agreement on a wage structure that adequately supports workers without putting unsustainable fiscal pressure on the government.
He explained that discussions focused on balancing improved employee benefits with the need for state governments to continue funding critical public services, infrastructure development and other essential obligations.
He said, “The state government recognizes the urgent need to improve the welfare of workers in response to the current economic realities facing Nigerians,” adding that consultations are ongoing to ensure a fair and sustainable outcome for all parties.
The proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage is expected to intensify national debates on pay, inflation, productivity and broader economic reforms as households continue to face rising costs of food, transportation, housing and other basic necessities.
For businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), upward pay revisions can present both opportunities and challenges. While increased disposable income may stimulate consumer spending and demand for goods and services, employers may also face increased operating costs and payroll obligations.
Nigeria’s current legal minimum wage is ₦70,000 per month. However, some states such as Lagos, Rivers and Imo have reportedly introduced wage structures that exceed the national standard depending on the economic situation.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labor Congress (NLC) continues to advocate for a far-reaching review of workers’ pay, arguing that workers have the right to be paid a living wage that meets current economic demands, not just wages that support basic survival.
As talks continue, it is hoped that the outcome of the negotiations will shape the future of labor relations, worker welfare and economic policy debates across the country.
Minimum wage, worker welfare, Nigerian economy #NGF #labour #inflation #cost of living #SMEA #economic development #public sector #Nigeria #business environment #income growth #MSMEAAfrica #economic policy
