Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has urged organised labour to broaden its advocacy beyond minimum wage negotiations by demanding the enforcement of existing laws and policies that guarantee affordable housing, healthcare, pensions, and other social welfare benefits for Nigerian workers.

Speaking at a symposium in Abuja held in honour of the late labour activist Dr. Segun Osoba, Falana argued that workers’ welfare extends beyond salary increases. He said labour unions should compel governments at all levels to fully implement social protection programmes that improve workers’ living standards and provide long-term economic security.

Falana specifically called for the implementation of the National Housing Act, noting that workers contribute three per cent of their monthly earnings to the National Housing Fund to facilitate access to affordable homes. He questioned why many contributors have yet to benefit from the scheme despite years of deductions, stressing that labour unions should insist on accountability and effective implementation of the programme.

He also expressed concern over Nigeria’s growing housing shortage, stating that millions of Nigerians remain without access to decent accommodation. According to him, affordable housing programmes must be strengthened to ensure workers can benefit from government-backed housing initiatives and improve their quality of life.

Beyond housing, Falana urged labour leaders to advocate for improved health insurance, prompt payment of pensions, better social protection measures, and increased allowances for workers. He maintained that enforcing existing welfare laws would have a greater impact on workers’ well-being than focusing solely on periodic wage increases.

Stakeholders believe Falana’s position reinforces the need for stronger implementation of housing and social welfare policies as part of broader labour reforms. They argue that improving access to affordable housing, healthcare, and social security would complement wage improvements and contribute to a higher standard of living for Nigerian workers.

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The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos State Council has called for a significant increase in the state’s minimum wage, proposing a new benchmark of N225,000 amid rising inflation and economic hardship.

The demand was announced by the council’s chairperson, Funmi Sessi, during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Current Wage No Longer Sustainable — NLC

According to the union, the existing N85,000 minimum wage has lost its value due to persistent inflation and the rising cost of living.

Labour leaders noted that workers are struggling to afford essential needs, including:

Food

Housing

Transportation

Healthcare

Education

The union warned that without an urgent wage adjustment, workers will remain under severe financial pressure.

Inflation Erodes Workers’ Purchasing Power

The NLC linked its demand to Nigeria’s inflation rate, currently estimated at about 15.38%, which has driven up the prices of goods and services.

The union stressed that the rapid increase in living costs has significantly weakened workers’ purchasing power, making it difficult for many households to stay afloat.

Call for Industrial Harmony

Labour leaders argued that revising the wage structure would not only improve workers’ welfare but also help maintain industrial peace.

They urged the Lagos State Government to act promptly to avoid potential labour disputes.

Security Concerns Also Raised

Beyond economic issues, the union highlighted growing insecurity as a threat to productivity and worker safety.

The NLC called on both federal and state authorities to strengthen security measures to protect lives and sustain economic activities.

Government Commended for Infrastructure Projects

Despite its concerns, the union acknowledged ongoing infrastructure development in Lagos, including investments in:

• Rail transportation
• Road networks
• Urban mobility projects

These initiatives, according to the NLC, contribute to economic growth and improved living standards.

Background: Previous Wage Adjustment

The Lagos State Government approved the current N85,000 minimum wage in October 2024 under the administration of Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The policy, implemented in November 2024, aimed to cushion the effects of inflation. However, labour leaders now argue that economic realities have outpaced the adjustment.

Wage Pressure Rising Nationwide

Recent data shows that minimum wage levels vary across Nigerian states, reflecting differences in fiscal capacity and cost of living.

However, inflation and economic challenges are driving similar wage demands across the country as workers push for better compensation.

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