Labour Unions Demand N500,000 National Minimum Wage in Nigeria

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have demanded a new national minimum wage of N500,000 for Nigerian workers. During the Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit 2026 in Birnin Kebbi, labour leaders argued that the current N70,000 benchmark is unsustainable and failed to respond to soaring inflation and economic hardship.

Beyond wage increases, the TUC called for an end to the casualisation of labour to ensure job security and improved productivity. The summit, which commemorated 88 years of legally recognized trade unionism in Nigeria, also addressed workplace safety and the protection of casual workers. Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba noted that decent work must encompass workers' rights and social protection alongside salary increases.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris pledged that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage agreed upon by the federal government. Idris, who noted his state was the first to implement a N75,000 minimum wage, promised to champion the unions' demands at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

Following the summit, African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore advocated for the N500,000 monthly salary, describing the demand as necessary and long overdue. Sowore urged Nigerians to elect leaders who prioritize the betterment of workers in the face of current economic realities.