By Peter Omopo
Abuja, May 1, 2025 — As Nigeria marks Workers’ Day, labour unions across the country have called for an immediate review of the N70,000 minimum wage, citing the worsening cost-of-living crisis and the harsh economic impact of recent federal policies.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), through their various state chapters, decried the deteriorating welfare of Nigerian workers, describing current wages as grossly inadequate in the face of rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and naira devaluation.
In separate interviews with The PUNCH, labour leaders criticised the economic direction of the Bola Tinubu administration, accusing it of failing to fulfil its promise to ensure a “living wage” for workers.
Bayelsa State TUC Chairman, Comrade Julius Laye, said workers are worse off now than under any previous government. “The introduction of new taxes, tariff hikes, and fuel subsidy removal have triggered hyperinflation. Workers can barely afford healthcare or basic needs,” he stated.
In Ebonyi State, NLC Chairman Prof. Oguguo Egwu and TUC counterpart Comrade Igwe Chidi echoed similar concerns, stressing that the newly implemented N70,000 minimum wage no longer meets workers’ needs. Egwu described the economic hardship as “unprecedented,” while Chidi said the wage barely covers basic expenses, especially food.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, speaking on the occasion, assured that the National Assembly and executive arm would work together to address workers’ demands. However, labour unions insist that actions, not promises, are needed.
In Niger State, TUC Chairman Ibrahim Gana said the inflationary impact of government policies had eroded any gains from the wage increase. “It’s like we’re not even earning a salary,” Gana said, blaming the federal government for pushing millions of workers into poverty.
Rivers State NLC Chairman, Alex Agwanwor, also described the minimum wage as ineffective in combating rising costs. “Inflation and the high cost of goods and services have neutralized the wage increase. Workers are struggling,” he said.
Imo State NLC Chairman, Comrade Chigaemezu Nwigwe, added that many workers are overwhelmed by bills they can no longer afford. He reiterated the need for the Tinubu administration to deliver on its pledge of a “living wage,” noting that the economic strain is nationwide.
As Nigerians mark May Day under the theme “Reclaiming a Civic Space Amid Economic Hardship,” labour leaders are calling for immediate and meaningful action from government at all levels to rescue workers from worsening poverty.
