The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Lagos State Council, has urged the Lagos State Government to increase the minimum wage from ₦85,000 to ₦225,000, citing persistent inflation and the rising cost of living. The appeal was made on Friday during the 2026 International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.
Addressing workers at the event, the Chairperson of the council, Mrs. Funmi Sessi, said the current wage no longer meets employees’ basic needs in the face of mounting economic pressures. She noted that the proposed increase would enhance workers’ welfare and help sustain industrial harmony across the state.
Sessi explained that although Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu had approved the ₦85,000 minimum wage, prevailing economic realities have rendered the amount inadequate.
“Given the current economic hardship and the high cost of living in Lagos, this amount is no longer sufficient,” she said, adding that the union was respectfully appealing for a review to ₦225,000 in the interest of workers.
The labour leader stated that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work,” underscores the challenges confronting Nigerian workers. She raised concerns over escalating insecurity nationwide, noting that it continues to threaten lives, livelihoods, and productivity.
According to her, workers in several parts of the country face risks such as kidnapping and displacement, which undermine workplace safety. She urged both the Federal Government and the Lagos State Government to strengthen security systems to better safeguard lives and property.
Sessi also highlighted the worsening impact of poverty and inflation, observing that the cost of essential goods and services has exceeded what the average worker can afford. She noted that many employees now struggle to meet basic needs, including housing, transportation, healthcare, and education.
“The current inflation rate of 15.38 per cent has worsened the suffering of our people,” she said. “Prices of foodstuffs and other essential commodities have risen significantly, making workers more vulnerable.”
She attributed part of the economic strain to global developments, including tensions between Iran and the United States, which she said have influenced petroleum prices and, in turn, the cost of living.
Despite these concerns, Sessi commended the Lagos State Government for ongoing infrastructure development and worker-focused initiatives. She cited projects such as the Blue, Red, and Yellow Rail Lines, the Opebi–Ojota Link Bridge, as well as investments in schools and road networks.
She described May Day as a significant occasion for workers globally, providing an opportunity to reflect on their struggles and achievements while reaffirming their commitment to fairness and social justice.
Sessi also called for policies that promote decent work, inclusive economic growth, and improved welfare for workers nationwide.
The event was attended by the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Gov. Sanwo-Olu, alongside other government officials, labour leaders, and thousands of workers from various sectors.
