Labour leaders have called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s ₦70,000 national minimum wage, arguing that it no longer reflects the country’s economic realities as inflation and the rising cost of living continue to erode workers’ purchasing power.

The call was made during the 2026 Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, held to commemorate 88 years of legally recognised trade unionism in Nigeria, according to Channels Television.

Speaking on behalf of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero, the union’s Deputy President, Amba, described the current minimum wage as inadequate in the face of increasing prices of goods and services.

He said the existing wage arrangement had expired and urged the Federal and State Governments to begin fresh negotiations on a new minimum wage that better reflects prevailing economic conditions.

“The current ₦70,000 minimum wage can no longer adequately respond to the realities confronting Nigerian workers, particularly with the rising cost of living,” Amba said.

Former NLC President Ayuba Wabba stressed that workers’ welfare should not be measured by wages alone. He said decent work must also guarantee workers’ rights, social protection and meaningful dialogue among labour unions, employers and government.

“Decent work is not only about wages. It is also about workers’ rights, social protection and meaningful social dialogue between workers, employers and government,” Wabba said.

The summit’s convener and Executive Director of Call a Lawyer, Ekpa Stanley, said the anniversary offered an opportunity to assess the progress of Nigerian workers and identify areas requiring urgent attention to improve working conditions.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris pledged that his administration would implement any new national minimum wage agreed at the federal level. He also promised to advocate for better wages during discussions at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

Participants at the summit also examined workplace safety, discrimination, inflation and the protection of casual and other non-traditional workers.

Labour leaders maintained that unless wages keep pace with economic realities, decades of gains achieved through workers’ organisation and collective bargaining could be undermined.