The Lagos State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress has called for a new minimum wage of N150,000 for workers in the state, citing the rising costs of living and recent wage increases in other states. According to Funmi Sesi, Chairperson of the state NLC, the current minimum wage of N85,000 is no longer sufficient to cover the high cost of accommodation, transportation, feeding, and utilities in Lagos.

The demand for a wage increase comes on the heels of similar moves by the governments of Imo and Ebonyi states, which recently announced upward reviews of their minimum wages. In Imo State, the minimum wage was increased from N76,000 to N104,000, while in Ebonyi State, it was raised from N70,000 to N90,000. Sesi expressed optimism that other state governments would follow suit, noting that the time has come for an upward review of the minimum wage in Lagos.

The NLC chairperson argued that workers in Lagos deserve a better wage and decent working conditions, given the state’s higher cost of living. She noted that the recent wage increases in Imo and Ebonyi states have set a precedent, making it difficult to justify the current minimum wage in Lagos. With the cost of living in Lagos being one of the highest in the country, Sesi’s demand for a new minimum wage of N150,000 is seen as a attempt to bridge the gap between workers’ earnings and the rising cost of living.

The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Sanwo-Olu, has not yet responded to the NLC’s demand. However, the state’s workers are likely to be watching the situation closely, given the potential impact on their livelihoods. As the debate over minimum wage continues, it remains to be seen whether the Lagos State Government will heed the NLC’s call and implement a higher wage for workers in the state. The outcome of this development will be closely watched, not only in Lagos but also in other states, as it may set a precedent for future wage negotiations.