The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a fresh review of the national minimum wage, saying the current ₦70,000 can no longer meet the needs of Nigerian workers because of rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.
The demand was made on Friday during the Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit 2026 held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, to mark 88 years of organised trade unionism in the country.
The summit, which focused on workers’ rights, decent jobs and a fair economy, brought together labour leaders, government officials, employers, civil society organisations, workers and representatives of the National Industrial Court.
Participants discussed issues affecting workers across the public and private sectors, including salaries, workplace safety, discrimination, job security and the welfare of casual employees.
Speaking on behalf of NLC President Joe Ajaero, the union’s Deputy President, Adewale Adeyanju, said the present minimum wage had lost its value due to current economic conditions. He explained that many workers now struggle to meet their daily needs despite earning the approved wage.
Adeyanju noted that the existing wage agreement had reached the stage where fresh negotiations with the Federal Government and state governments had become necessary. He said any new wage should reflect the country’s present economic situation and help workers cope with the rising prices of goods and services.
The convener of the summit and Executive Director of Call a Lawyer, Ekpa Stanley, said the gathering was organised to celebrate the history of trade unionism while also reviewing the progress made over the years and identifying areas that still require attention. He said the meeting provided an opportunity to discuss ways of improving the lives and working conditions of Nigerian workers.
Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba also spoke at the event, saying workers’ welfare should not be measured by salaries alone. He said issues such as workers’ rights, social protection, job security and regular dialogue between labour, employers and government remain important for creating better workplaces.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris assured workers that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage approved by the Federal Government. He also said he would support efforts to improve workers’ pay during discussions at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
Participants at the summit also called for stronger enforcement of labour laws, safer workplaces, protection against discrimination and better support for workers outside the formal employment sector.
They said the anniversary of organised trade unionism should serve as an opportunity to improve workers’ welfare and ensure that collective bargaining leads to better living and working conditions across the country.