The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has dismissed the proposed ₦100,000 national minimum wage being considered by state governors, insisting that Nigerian workers deserve as much as ₦1 million monthly due to the country’s worsening economic realities.

Speaking in an interview on Sunday, May 31, NLC spokesperson Benson Upah reacted to comments by Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who revealed that governors were considering a fresh wage structure of ₦100,000.

AbdulRazaq said the proposal became necessary because of rising inflation, increasing living costs and the growing financial pressure on workers.

But Upah argued that the amount being discussed is nowhere near enough to meet the needs of average Nigerians.

“We consider it thoughtful of the Kwara State governor to propose this, but certainly, ₦100,000 falls far below the realistic figure,” he said.

According to him, the sharp fall of the naira, rising electricity tariffs, higher petrol prices, inflation and the declining purchasing power of workers have made survival increasingly difficult.

“Given the realities around the exchange rate, inflation, raised tariffs, the surge in the pump price of petrol and associated costs, and the effects of the new tax regime, the realistic figure would be ₦1 million,” Upah stated.

He also argued that governments now earn more revenue and should prioritise workers’ welfare.

“In light of the earnings by governments, this should not be a big issue. Check what is being shared at FAAC,” he added.

Debate over wages has intensified since the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira triggered sharp increases in food, transport and energy costs.

Although the Federal Government approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage in July 2024, labour unions insist inflation has already wiped out its value and are demanding another review.