Workers in Edo State have called for an urgent review of the N75,000 minimum wage, arguing that inflation and rising fuel prices have rendered current earnings inadequate for basic living.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) State Chairman, Bernard Eguakhide, said the wage no longer guarantees a decent standard of living.
“An upward review of the minimum wage from N70,000 to N75,000 has proven insufficient, as the N75,000 minimum wage can no longer take workers to their workplace and back home due to the increase in petroleum product prices globally,” he stated.
Eguakhide noted that more than 70 per cent of workers now spend the bulk of their income on basic necessities.
“Inflation remains between 28 per cent and 30 per cent, food prices have risen by over 50 per cent, and transportation costs have surged by more than 50 per cent. The result is clear: workers are getting poorer despite working harder. Wages are no longer sufficient to guarantee a decent standard of living,” he added.
Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Joseph James Wasah, supported the call for an immediate wage review, warning that recent wage gains had already been eroded.
“There is an urgent need for a wage review in 2026. Current earnings no longer meet basic needs due to escalating inflation and widespread hardship. Workers need wages that guarantee life, not mere survival. Edo State workers deserve wages that reflect inflation, immediate cost-of-living support, and long-term policies that restore dignity. We also call for the immediate provision of buses to ease transportation challenges for civil and public servants,” he said.
Organised labour, comprising the NLC and TUC, noted that the theme of this year’s Workers’ Day, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work”, reflects the harsh economic realities confronting workers, as global crude oil volatility continues to drive up domestic costs.
