The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep concern that the current minimum wage of N70,000 is inadequate for Nigerian workers, especially in light of rising petrol prices.

At the opening of a two-day workshop on “Minimum Wage Implementation” in Lagos on September 19, 2024, NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized the government, claiming that President Bola Tinubu misled organized labor into accepting the N70,000 wage to avoid a fuel price hike.

Ajaero urged the government to tackle the severe hunger, poverty, and frustration affecting Nigerians, warning that the situation is becoming untenable. He noted that many citizens have started to adapt to these challenges, as the government continues to distract labor with allegations of cybercrime and terrorism financing.

He reiterated that organized labor feels betrayed, recounting a meeting with President Tinubu where the president suggested raising the minimum wage to N250,000, contingent upon allowing a fuel price increase. Ajaero emphasized that any wage increase would be meaningless if fuel prices continue to rise.

During the negotiations, the NLC insisted on focusing on the minimum wage, rejecting the idea of a fuel price hike and highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by workers. Ajaero acknowledged that the acceptance of the N70,000 minimum wage was contentious, with private sector employers resistant to agreeing on adequate compensation, leading to significant tensions during negotiations.