Labour leaders have called for an upward review of Nigeria’s minimum wage, saying inflation and the rising cost of living have significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power.
The call was made on Friday at the Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit 2026 in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, held to commemorate 88 years of organised trade unionism in the country.
The summit, themed “The Rights of Workers: Decent Work and a Just Economy in Nigeria,” brought together labour leaders, government officials, employers, civil society organisations and representatives of the National Industrial Court to examine the state of workers’ welfare and labour rights.
Participants discussed issues including wages, inflation, workplace safety, discrimination, job insecurity and the protection of casual and other non-traditional workers.
Representing the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, the NLC Deputy President, Adewale Adeyanju (Amba), described the ₦70,000 national minimum wage as inadequate in the face of current economic realities.
“The current ₦70,000 minimum wage can no longer adequately respond to the realities confronting Nigerian workers, particularly with the rising cost of living,” he said.
Adeyanju argued that the existing wage structure had been overtaken by inflation and urged the Federal and State Governments to begin fresh negotiations on a new minimum wage that reflects prevailing economic conditions.
The Executive Director of Call a Lawyer and convener of the summit, Ekpa Stanley, said the gathering was intended not only to celebrate the history of trade unionism but also to assess progress and chart a path toward improved workers’ welfare.
“This summit is not only about celebrating 88 years of trade unionism; it is also an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved, the challenges that remain, and what must be done to guarantee decent work for Nigerian workers,” he said.
Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba stressed that decent work extends beyond salary increases, noting that workers also require social protection, respect for their rights and meaningful engagement among labour, employers and government.
“Decent work is not only about wages. It is also about workers’ rights, social protection and meaningful social dialogue between workers, employers and government,” Wabba said.
He urged policymakers to adopt measures that guarantee workers’ dignity, job security and adequate social protection amid mounting economic pressures.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris assured workers that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage approved by the Federal Government.
“Whatever is agreed upon at the national level on the minimum wage, Kebbi State will implement it,” the governor said, adding that he would also advocate improved remuneration for workers at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
Participants also called for stronger enforcement of labour laws, improved workplace safety, greater protection against discrimination and enhanced safeguards for workers outside the traditional formal employment sector.
They said the 88th anniversary of legally recognised trade unionism should serve as a reminder of the need to strengthen workers’ rights and ensure that decades of collective bargaining translate into meaningful improvements in living and working conditions.
The summit concluded with goodwill messages from labour leaders, affiliate unions and representatives of the National Industrial Court, while awards were presented to individuals, including Governor Idris, for their contributions to workers’ welfare and development.