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Workers

Workers in Nigeria Demand Higher Minimum Wage Amid Rising Cost of Living

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The recent announcement of increased minimum wages by the Imo and Ebonyi state governments has sparked a wave of demands for higher wages across Nigeria. Workers in states such as Lagos are calling for a new minimum wage of N150,000, citing rising costs of living and recent wage increases in Imo and Ebonyi states. The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to implement a higher wage for workers, stressing that they deserve a better wage and decent working conditions commensurate with the economic realities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Imo State government has increased the minimum wage from N76,000 to N104,000, while the Ebonyi State government has raised its minimum wage from N70,000 to N90,000.
  • The Lagos State Chapter of the NLC has demanded a new minimum wage of N150,000, citing rising costs of living and recent wage increases in Imo and Ebonyi states.
  • National President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, has urged both federal and state governments to urgently implement higher minimum wages for workers, commending Governor Hope Uzodimma for his bold decision to significantly raise salaries.
  • The NLC has expressed concern over developments at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, accusing the government of diverting 40 per cent of workers' contributions and attempting to amend the NSITF Act.
  • Governor Uzodimma has approved salary adjustments for key sectors, including doctors and teachers, with doctors' pay rising from N215,000 to N503,000 and teachers' wages jumping from N119,000 to N222,000.

Statistics:

  • Imo State's minimum wage has increased from N76,000 to N104,000.
  • Ebonyi State's minimum wage has been raised from N70,000 to N90,000.
  • Lagos workers currently earn a minimum wage of N85,000.
  • Accommodation, transport, feeding, and utilities are more expensive in Lagos than in other states.
  • The NLC has demanded a new minimum wage of N150,000.

Sources:

  • "Imo, Ebonyi raise minimum wage, workers demand Lagos follow suit" (The Guardian)
  • "Labour Demands N150,000 Minimum Wage in Lagos" (Vanguard)
  • "NLC President Appeals for Urgent Implementation of Higher Minimum Wages" (Leadership)
  • "We have reached out to Governor Uzodimma" (ThisDay)

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