LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Labour leaders in Lagos have called for a sharp increase in the state minimum wage, warning that inflation and economic pressure have made the current pay structure inadequate for basic survival.
The appeal was made on Friday by the state chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Funmi Sessi, during the 2026 International Workers Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos.
The event attracted top government officials, including Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Governor Sanwo-Olu, alongside labour leaders and thousands of workers from different sectors.
Sessi said the demand to increase workers wages from N85,000 to N225,000, became necessary due to the rising cost of living and persistent inflation.
While she acknowledged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s approval of the current N85,000 wage, she stressed that the amount no longer meets workers basic needs.
“Given the current economic hardship and the high cost of living in Lagos, this amount is no longer sufficient. We, therefore, respectfully appeal to the state government to review the minimum wage to N225,000 in the interest of workers and industrial harmony,” she said.
Addressing the challenges affecting workers, Sessi noted that the theme of the celebration, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work,” reflects the reality faced by many Nigerians.
She expressed concern over growing insecurity across the country, explaining that threats such as kidnapping and displacement are making workplaces unsafe.
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According to her, stronger security measures are needed from both federal and state governments to protect lives and property.
The NLC Chairperson highlighted the impact of inflation on workers welfare, pointing to the rising cost of goods and services that has placed essentials like housing, transport, healthcare, and education out of reach for many families.
“The current inflation rate of 15.38 percent has worsened the suffering of our people. Prices of foodstuffs and other essential commodities have risen significantly, making workers more vulnerable,” Sessi noted.
She also linked the economic hardship to global events, including tensions between Iran and the United States, which have affected oil prices and increased living costs.
Despite the concerns, Sessi commended the Lagos State Government for ongoing infrastructure projects and worker-focused policies.
She mentioned key developments such as the Blue, Red, and Yellow Rail Lines, the Opebi–Ojota Link Bridge, as well as investments in schools and road construction.
She maintained that the celebration of May Day is an important moment for workers to reflect on their struggles and progress, while renewing their commitment to fairness and better working conditions.
Ongoing discussions between labour unions and government authorities are expected to shape future decisions on wages and worker welfare across the state.
(NAN)
