By Amaechi Agbo
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have officially demanded a new national minimum wage of ₦500,000 for Nigerian workers, arguing that the current wage structure has been completely eroded by inflation and economic hardship.
The demand was made by Comrade Audu Titus Amba (National Deputy President of the NLC) during the Nigeria Workers’ Rights Summit in Birnin Kebbi.The
Organised labour notes that the timeframe for the previous wage adjustments elapsed in July 2026, legally clearing the path for a fresh round of negotiations.
Representatives from both the NLC and TUC emphasized that any figure below ₦500,000 cannot sustain an average worker due to skyrocketing living costs and severe economic pressures.
Labour leadership clarified that they are not seeking a direct confrontation with the Federal Government, but are instead advocating for constructive engagement to review workers’ welfare.
During the summit, Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, assured workers that his administration is prepared to review state policies and adapt to newly negotiated welfare structures to ensure a better standard of living for civil servants.
