NLC and TUC have announced plans to begin negotiations for a new national minimum wage in July, citing rising inflation and the growing cost of living across Nigeria.

The organised labour movement, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has announced plans to commence negotiations for a new national minimum wage in July 2026.

Labour leaders disclosed this during a joint press conference held on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
The unions noted that prevailing economic realities and the rising cost of living have heightened concerns about the adequacy of the current N70,000 national minimum wage.
According to the labour leaders, a number of state governors have acknowledged that the existing wage structure is becoming increasingly insufficient to meet the basic needs of workers.
However, they warned against unilateral declarations of a new wage figure, stressing that any review must follow the established tripartite negotiation framework involving organised labour, government and employers.
The labour representatives maintained that wage determination should be driven by dialogue, consensus and prevailing economic conditions rather than arbitrary decisions.
They also called on federal and state governments to prioritise the payment of outstanding gratuity arrears owed to retirees, describing the delays as a significant source of hardship for many former public servants.
The unions reaffirmed their commitment to constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders as discussions on a new wage framework get underway.
They expressed confidence that the forthcoming negotiations would result in a fair and sustainable minimum wage capable of improving workers’ welfare while promoting economic stability.
The planned talks come amid growing concerns over inflation, rising transportation costs and increasing living expenses, all of which have significantly weakened the purchasing power of workers across the country.