The Lagos State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the state government to raise the minimum wage of workers from ₦85,000 to ₦150,000, citing the high cost of living in the state.
Chairperson of the Lagos NLC, Mrs. Funmi Sesi, made the appeal on Thursday, pointing to the recent wage increases in Imo and Ebonyi as examples Lagos should emulate.
She argued that the cost of accommodation, transportation, food, and utilities in Lagos was significantly higher than in other states, making a higher wage imperative.
“The time has come for an upward review of minimum wage in Lagos. At least someone has taken the bull by the horns and opened the space,” Sesi said.
“No one can blame Governor Sanwo-Olu now if he implements a higher wage for Lagos workers. We deserve a better wage and decent working conditions that reflect the realities in the country, especially in Lagos,” she added.
Sesi commended the governments of Imo and Ebonyi for raising their minimum wages and urged Lagos to follow suit.
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo recently increased the state’s minimum wage from ₦76,000 to ₦104,000, while Ebonyi raised its wage from ₦70,000 to ₦90,000.
The Lagos NLC said it would soon engage the state government to push for an improved welfare package for workers.
