Korede Abdullah 
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq
LAGOS, Nigeria – State governors are considering a new national minimum wage of ₦100,000 as discussions intensify over workers’ welfare amid rising inflation and mounting economic hardship.
Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed the proposal on Saturday, saying ongoing consultations are focused on achieving a balance between workers’ welfare and fiscal sustainability.
“State governments recognise the urgent need to improve workers’ welfare in response to the current economic realities facing Nigerians,” AbdulRazaq stated.
According to him, governors are engaging the Federal Government and organised labour to develop a wage structure that improves purchasing power without jeopardising state 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,” he said.
Nigeria’s current statutory minimum wage stands at ₦70,000, although some states have adopted higher wage structures.
Reacting to the proposal, Omoyele Sowore described the suggested figure as inadequate.
“These governors know very well that no worker can live decently on ₦100,000 per month in today’s Nigeria,” Sowore said.
“That amount can barely purchase a bag of rice, let alone cover housing, transportation, healthcare, education, utilities and other basic necessities.”
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress has continued to advocate for a comprehensive salary review, insisting that workers deserve a living wage capable of meeting current economic realities.
The proposal is expected to feature prominently in upcoming negotiations involving labour unions, state governments and federal authorities.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
