Nigeria’s labour advocacy landscape has gained fresh momentum as the Obidient Movement publicly declared its support for the Nigeria Labour Congress in its push for a significant increase in the national minimum wage, urging the Federal Government to respond urgently to the growing economic challenges facing workers across the country.
The position was made known by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, in a Workers’ Day message delivered in Abuja, where he described Nigerian workers as the backbone of the economy and emphasized the need for policies that reflect their contributions and realities.
According to him, while the current minimum wage stands at ₦70,000 per month following the 2024 adjustment, it has already been overtaken by rising inflation and the increasing cost of living, making it inadequate for meeting basic needs.
The Nigeria Labour Congress has been advocating for a substantial upward review, with proposals reaching as high as ₦154,000 per month, a figure aimed at restoring the purchasing power of workers and ensuring a more realistic standard of living.
Tanko urged the Federal Government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to adopt the proposal, stressing that failure to act could further deepen economic hardship and reduce the ability of workers to sustain themselves and their families.
He noted that Nigerian workers continue to play a vital role in driving economic growth despite facing increasingly difficult conditions, including job losses, business closures, and declining real income.
Citing labour statistics, he highlighted that over 116 million Nigerians fall within the working-age population, underscoring the scale of the workforce and the importance of policies that support their welfare.
Despite this large and active labour force, the Obidient Movement expressed concern that existing government policies have not created a sufficiently supportive environment for workers to thrive.
The group pointed to rising unemployment rates and economic instability as key indicators of systemic challenges that require urgent attention.
Tanko further argued that the economic situation has worsened in recent years, with inflation eroding the value of wages and leaving many households struggling to meet essential needs such as food, housing, and healthcare.
He emphasized that the demand for a higher minimum wage is not merely a labour issue but a broader socio-economic concern that affects national stability and productivity.
The call aligns with the Nigeria Labour Congress’s long-standing position that workers deserve a “living wage” that reflects current economic realities rather than a nominal figure that loses value over time.
Labour leaders have repeatedly stressed that without addressing inflation and currency depreciation, even incremental wage increases may fail to deliver meaningful improvements in living standards.
The Obidient Movement also used the opportunity to call for additional measures beyond wage increases, including improved working conditions, tax reliefs, access to healthcare, and housing support for workers.
These measures, according to the group, are essential for creating a more inclusive and sustainable economic environment where workers can contribute effectively and enjoy the benefits of their labour.
The statement further raised concerns about Nigeria’s rising debt profile, warning that excessive debt servicing could limit the government’s ability to invest in social welfare and economic development.
Tanko stressed that prioritizing workers’ welfare should be central to policy decisions, given their role in sustaining economic activities across sectors.
The endorsement by the Obidient Movement adds a political dimension to the ongoing labour agitation, potentially increasing pressure on the Federal Government to act.
Political support for labour demands can influence public discourse and shape policy responses, particularly in a period marked by economic challenges and public scrutiny.
Observers note that the convergence of labour advocacy and political backing could accelerate discussions around wage review, but also highlight the need for balanced solutions that consider fiscal sustainability.
While increasing wages can provide immediate relief, it must be accompanied by policies that address inflation, productivity, and economic growth to ensure long-term stability.
As Nigeria navigates its current economic landscape, the debate over minimum wage is likely to remain a central issue, reflecting broader concerns about inequality, cost of living, and the role of government in protecting citizens’ welfare.
For now, the Obidient Movement’s support reinforces the urgency of the matter, adding to calls for swift and decisive action to improve the livelihoods of Nigerian workers and strengthen the foundation of the country’s economy.