The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a new national minimum wage of ₦154,000, citing worsening economic hardship and the declining purchasing power of Nigerian workers.
The demand was conveyed through the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), an arm of the labour union responsible for negotiating wages for public sector employees.
In a letter signed by its officials, the council stressed the urgent need for an upward review of salaries and allowances across the public service.
According to the union, the current minimum wage is no longer sufficient to meet the basic needs of workers, as it has been severely eroded by inflation.
They noted that the rising cost of food, transportation, housing, and other essentials has made it nearly impossible for many workers to survive on their earnings.
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Labour leaders explained that the existing wage structure leaves many employees struggling to feed their families, pay rent, and cover healthcare and education expenses.
They added that what was once considered a livable wage has now become inadequate in the face of Nigeria’s economic realities.
The proposed ₦154,000 minimum wage, the council said, is aimed at restoring a reasonable standard of living and easing the financial burden on workers.
The union also urged the Federal Government to commence immediate negotiations, warning that continued delays in wage adjustment could further worsen the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
The demand comes amid growing concerns over the country’s cost-of-living crisis, with increasing calls for urgent measures to improve workers’ welfare and stabilize the economy.
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