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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has stated that a monthly salary of ₦1 million holds little value for Nigerian workers without a stable naira and improved economic conditions.
Speaking in an interview in Abuja, NLC President, Joe Ajaero, emphasized that the real concern for workers is not just higher wages, but the actual value of money amid rising inflation.
According to Ajaero, the increasing cost of living continues to erode workers’ purchasing power, making it difficult to afford basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing.
“Even if Nigerian workers earn ₦1 million, it will not be meaningful if the naira has no value,” he said. “What we need is a currency that can sustain workers and their families at least to the end of the month.”
On the issue of minimum wage, Ajaero clarified that negotiations have not yet begun, noting that the process is governed by law and must follow a defined review cycle.
“The minimum wage has not been negotiated yet. It is a process that must follow due procedure. It cannot be rushed because of election timelines,” he stated, adding that discussions will commence at the appropriate time.
He also called for urgent government intervention to ease the burden of inflation on workers, warning that the current economic situation remains harsh. The recent increase in fuel prices, he noted, has further worsened living conditions by driving up transportation and food costs.
“We raised concerns when global developments began affecting local fuel prices and called for intervention. Unfortunately, the situation has not improved, and the burden on workers keeps increasing,”
Ajaero stressed the need for Nigeria to develop a resilient energy policy that shields the country from external shocks. “It is not ideal that events in other parts of the world automatically translate into hardship in Nigeria. We must build a system that protects both our economy and citizens,” he added.
Addressing pension-related concerns, the NLC president noted growing confusion caused by the emergence of multiple pension unions. He disclosed that the Congress is engaging stakeholders to harmonize positions and ensure proper coordination, especially regarding deductions and remittances.
On the upcoming Workers' Day, Ajaero revealed that any planned protests would be limited to states that have not fully implemented the approved minimum wage.
“Protests, if necessary, will only take place in states yet to comply. It is not a nationwide action,” he explained.
While acknowledging that many states have implemented the policy, he pointed out that some are yet to fully comply, particularly at the local government and education sector levels. He also highlighted issues with incomplete salary adjustments in some states.
“These are technical matters that must be addressed. We will assess compliance levels before May Day,” he said.
Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to advocating for policies that improve workers’ welfare and ensure economic stability. He also commended the Federal Government for reviewing peculiar allowances and approving a 100 per cent duty tour allowance for civil servants, expressing hope for effective implementation.