Public sector workers in Lagos received a May Day boost as Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved a one-off N50,000 wage award to help mitigate the impact of rising living costs.
The announcement was made during the International Workers’ Day celebration at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, where the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, represented the governor and conveyed the decision to thousands of workers in attendance.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the additional N50,000 will be paid to all state workers for the month of May.
“For the month of May, the Lagos State Government has approved an additional N50,000 for all workers.
“We are aware of prevailing economic challenges, including increasing fuel prices and global pressures. This decision is intended to support our workforce during this period,” he said.
The governor linked the intervention to the mounting economic strain on households, noting that rising fuel prices and global economic pressures have eroded disposable incomes.
He commended Lagos workers for sustaining the state’s productivity, crediting teachers, healthcare personnel, artisans, and civil servants with driving its continued growth.
“Why do workers rise before dawn daily, striving to build and sustain this state? That sense of duty is the reason Lagos continues to stand strong.
“Lagos is not great because of its government. It is great because of its workers—teachers, healthcare personnel, artisans, and civil servants—who keep the system functioning,” he said.
Addressing housing and transport challenges, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the difficulties faced by workers who reside far from their workplaces.
“When workers cannot afford to live close to their place of work, it creates a serious difficulty, and we are mindful of this.
“That is why we are investing in affordable housing, with thousands of units already completed and more planned before the end of 2026,” he said.
He also highlighted the state’s rent-to-own scheme, which allows beneficiaries to make a five per cent initial payment and spread the balance over time.
On mobility, the governor pointed to ongoing rail projects aimed at reducing commute times and enhancing productivity.
“Our rail system has already moved millions of passengers, and with additional coaches and ongoing expansion, we are improving,” he added.
