During the International Workers’ Day (May Day) celebration, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos State Council called for a substantial increase in the minimum wage for Lagos workers. The NLC, led by Chairperson Comrade Funmi Sessi, urged the Lagos State Government to raise the minimum wage from the current N85,000 to N225,000, citing rising inflation and the escalating cost of living.
Addressing thousands of workers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos, Sessi expressed that the current wage no longer meets the basic needs of workers. “The current N85,000 minimum wage, though initially commendable, has become insufficient in light of the economic hardships and the soaring cost of living in Lagos,” she said.
The NLC’s appeal aligns with the theme of the 2026 May Day celebration: “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work.” Sessi emphasized that the theme reflects the grave challenges facing Nigerian workers, particularly those in Lagos, where insecurity, inflation, and the high cost of essential goods have made survival increasingly difficult.
Inflation, now at 15.38 percent, has severely impacted workers’ ability to meet basic needs such as housing, transportation, healthcare, and education. According to Sessi, food prices and essential commodities have surged beyond the reach of many, leaving workers vulnerable and struggling to make ends meet.
Sessi also linked the growing economic strain to global factors, such as the ongoing conflict between Iran and the U.S., which has negatively affected global petroleum prices and further escalated the cost of living. Despite these challenges, Sessi acknowledged the Lagos State Government’s efforts in infrastructure development, including the Blue, Red, and Yellow Rail Lines, as well as improvements in school buildings and road networks.
She also praised initiatives aimed at supporting workers, but reiterated that these were not enough to address the increasing economic difficulties faced by workers. “We respectfully appeal to the state government to urgently review the minimum wage to N225,000 to ensure the well-being and productivity of Lagos workers,” Sessi added.
Security concerns were also raised, as workers continue to face threats like kidnapping and displacement in several regions, further jeopardizing workplace safety. Sessi called for both the federal and state governments to strengthen security measures to protect lives and ensure workers’ safety.
The event, which celebrated the achievements of workers and recognized their struggles, was attended by Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as other state officials, labour leaders, and thousands of workers from various sectors.
In conclusion, Sessi stressed the need for policies that promote decent work, inclusive growth, and improved welfare for workers. She also urged continued dialogue between organized labour and the government, with strikes only seen as a last resort.
