The Federal Government has commenced preliminary discussions on the review of Nigeria’s current national minimum wage, raising expectations of a possible new wage structure for workers across the country.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Dr Kamil Shoretire, disclosed this in Abuja during a capacity-building workshop organized for labour correspondents.
According to Shoretire, discussions on the proposed minimum wage review are already taking place within the government as part of preparations for future negotiations with labour unions and other stakeholders.
The permanent secretary explained that although an official timetable for the negotiations had not been released, consultations regarding the proposed review were ongoing.
He added that the government would make further details public when it was ready to formally involve the media in the negotiation process.
Government Engages Workers Over Outstanding Salary Disputes
Shoretire further revealed that the Federal Government was engaging workers in certain sectors where disagreements over salaries, allowances and other payments remained unresolved.
The discussions are part of ongoing efforts to address labour-related concerns and improve engagement between the government and affected workers.
Labour Demands Increase in Minimum Wage
The planned review comes amid sustained pressure from organized labour for an upward review of Nigeria’s national minimum wage.
The current minimum wage of ₦70,000 was approved in 2024, following negotiations between the Federal Government, labour unions and other stakeholders.
However, rising living costs have continued to fuel concerns among workers and labour organizations, particularly regarding the affordability of food, transportation and other essential needs.
Labour groups have called for a new minimum wage of ₦500,000, citing the need to improve workers’ purchasing power and address the economic pressures facing Nigerian households.
No Official Negotiation Date Yet
Despite the ongoing consultations, the Federal Government has not announced a formal timetable for the new minimum wage negotiations.
Shoretire indicated that the government would provide further information when the process reaches the stage where the media can be formally involved.
The eventual outcome of the discussions will depend on negotiations involving the government, organized labour and other relevant stakeholders. No new minimum wage figure has been officially announced by the government at this stage.