By By Elizabeth Ugbo
State governors under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) have proposed a new national minimum wage of ₦100,000 for Nigerian workers. NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed the proposal on Saturday through a state government Facebook post. The proposal aims to address rising inflation, high living costs, and growing financial pressure on workers across Nigeria. The governors are discussing the plan with the Federal Government and organised labour to create a sustainable wage structure.
Governors Push for Improved Workers’ Welfare
AbdulRazaq said state governments recognize the need to improve workers’ welfare. According to him, many employees struggle to meet basic household needs due to current economic challenges.
He explained that the proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage would help workers cope with increasing food prices, transportation costs, and other essential expenses.
“State governments recognise the urgent need to improve workers’ welfare in response to the current economic realities facing Nigerians,” he stated.
Ongoing Consultations With Labour and Federal Government
The NGF chairman said governors have started consultations with key stakeholders. These discussions involve the Federal Government and organised labour.
He noted that the talks focus on creating a wage structure that benefits workers while protecting government finances.
“We are actively engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to arrive at a wage structure that is fair to workers and sustainable for government finances,” AbdulRazaq said.
Balancing Salaries and State Finances
AbdulRazaq stressed the importance of balancing workers’ welfare with fiscal responsibility. He explained that governments must continue funding critical public services and infrastructure projects.
“The goal is to improve the living conditions of workers while ensuring that states can continue to meet their obligations and sustain development projects that directly impact citizens,” he added.
He also urged policymakers to consider the financial realities facing state governments.
Some States Already Pay Above Minimum Wage
Several states, including Lagos, Rivers, and Imo, reportedly pay salaries above the current national minimum wage. These states adopted higher wage structures to support workers amid economic hardship.
Meanwhile, workers across the country continue to demand better pay as inflation reduces purchasing power.
NLC Demands Living Wage for Workers
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has consistently called for a comprehensive salary review. The labour union argues that workers deserve a living wage rather than a wage that only guarantees survival.
The proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage has sparked nationwide discussions about salaries, inflation, and broader economic reforms. Many Nigerians believe a higher wage could ease financial pressure and improve living standards.
However, stakeholders continue to debate how governments can sustain the increased wage bill while maintaining development projects and essential services.
