In a demand that could have major implications for workers’ rights and living standards, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has proposed a new national minimum wage of N794,000 for workers in the South West geopolitical zone. This proposal is based on the high cost of living in the region and the need to ensure that workers’ wages keep pace with inflation.

On Thursday, the Lagos State NLC Chairman, Mrs. Funmi Sessi, presented the proposal to the government. Sessi argued that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet the needs of workers in the South West and that an increase is necessary to protect their livelihoods. She also highlighted the need for the government to take action to address the rising cost of living.

Unions criticized the unwillingness of some governors to pay the current minimum wage, calling it “unacceptable.” They stressed that the minimum wage is the minimum amount required to meet the basic needs of workers and their families, and that it is not acceptable for governors to be unwilling to provide for their citizens.