Labour unions to reopen talks with FG on wage review
The Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress plan to resume negotiations with the Federal Government for a new national minimum wage. The unions argue that the current wage no longer reflects Nigeria’s economic realities, citing rising inflation and living costs. They insist on a “genuine living wage” and reject any move to tax the minimum wage or add fiscal burdens on low-income earners. The labour leaders also warned that delays in negotiations could worsen industrial tensions and economic hardship.
TLDR
- The current minimum wage of N70,000 was signed into law on 18 July 2024, announced by President Bola Tinubu on 19 July 2024, and took effect on 29 July 2024.
- The wage review cycle was changed in January 2025 to every two years, setting 2026 as the next review.
- Labour unions plan to begin discussions with the government ahead of the July 2026 renegotiation deadline.
- The unions demand immediate relief measures and reject any proposal to tax the minimum wage.
- They highlighted broader issues such as insecurity, unemployment, and poverty, warning that further delays or burdens could escalate tensions.
