The Federal Government has indicated plans to review the national minimum wage, with the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, acknowledging that the current ₦70,000 wage benchmark may no longer adequately meet the needs of Nigerian workers.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja during an event organised by Working People United, Gbajabiamila said the economic realities facing Nigerians have made it necessary to reassess the wage structure introduced by the administration in 2024.
According to him, the ₦70,000 minimum wage, which was celebrated as a major achievement at the time of its approval, has been overtaken by current conditions and should be reviewed to ensure it remains relevant.
He assured workers that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would engage constructively with organised labour whenever discussions on a new wage review commence.
Gbajabiamila stressed that the government does not view labour unions as opponents but as critical partners in national development. He noted that President Tinubu remains committed to ensuring that Nigerian workers receive fair and appropriate compensation for their contributions to the country.
The former Speaker of the House of Representatives said the President has consistently demonstrated his commitment to workers’ welfare and can be trusted to follow through on promises made regarding labour issues.
He further emphasised the importance of collaboration between government and citizens, describing good governance as a shared responsibility rather than a one-sided undertaking.
Gbajabiamila urged labour leaders and members of Working People United to continue engaging the government through dialogue and cooperation, arguing that meaningful progress is best achieved through partnership rather than confrontation.
He maintained that sustained engagement between both parties would produce better outcomes for workers and the nation than resorting to disruptive actions or entrenched disagreements.
