The Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the state government to raise the minimum wage for workers from N85,000 to N225,000, citing worsening economic conditions and rising living costs.
The demand was made on Friday by the state NLC Chairperson, Funmi Sessi, during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos.
Sessi said the current wage, though an improvement on previous earnings, had become inadequate in the face of persistent inflation and increasing prices of goods and services in the state.
She explained that workers were struggling to cope with the cost of living, adding that a review had become necessary to maintain industrial harmony.
“In view of the current economic realities and the high cost of living in Lagos, the present minimum wage is no longer sufficient,” she said.
“We therefore appeal for its upward review to N225,000 in the interest of workers’ welfare and productivity.”
The labour leader also raised concerns over insecurity and poverty, warning that these factors were increasingly affecting the safety and efficiency of workers across the state.
According to her, cases of insecurity, including kidnappings and displacement in some areas, have added to the burden faced by the workforce, while inflation continues to erode purchasing power.
Sessi noted that the current inflation rate, put at 15.38 per cent, had further worsened the economic hardship confronting workers, particularly with the rising cost of food and essential commodities.
She urged both the federal and state governments to strengthen security measures and introduce more effective policies aimed at improving workers’ welfare.
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Despite the concerns, she commended the Lagos State Government for ongoing infrastructure development and initiatives targeted at supporting workers.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, alongside top government officials and labour leaders.
