The organised labour movement in Nigeria, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has announced plans to commence negotiations for a new national minimum wage in July 2026.
The disclosure was made by labour leaders during a joint press conference held on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
According to the workers’ representatives, there is growing recognition among many state governors that the current national minimum wage of N70,000 is no longer sufficient to meet the basic needs of Nigerian workers amid prevailing economic realities.
Despite this acknowledgment, the labour unions cautioned state governors against unilaterally proposing a new minimum wage figure outside the established framework for wage determination.
They stressed that any review of the national minimum wage must follow the appropriate negotiation process involving all relevant stakeholders, as stipulated by law and established labour practices.
The organised labour movement also called on the government to prioritise the payment of all outstanding gratuity arrears owed to workers and retirees across the country.
The NLC and TUC reaffirmed their commitment to constructive engagement with the government, employers, and other stakeholders during the forthcoming wage review process, to secure improved welfare and better living conditions for Nigerian workers.
The planned negotiations are expected to shape discussions around workers’ compensation and labour welfare as Nigeria continues to grapple with rising living costs and economic pressures affecting households nationwide.