The Nigeria Labour Congress has said that a monthly salary of N1 million would hold little value for workers if the naira remains weak and economic conditions fail to improve. Its President, Joe Ajaero, made the remarks in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Abuja, where he also ruled out a nationwide protest on May 1.
Ajaero explained that organised labour was more concerned about the strength of the currency than headline wage figures, stressing that income levels alone do not reflect workers’ real welfare.
He noted that rising inflation continues to erode purchasing power, leaving many Nigerians struggling to afford basic needs such as food, transportation and housing.
“Even if Nigerian workers earn N1m, it will not be meaningful if the naira has no value,” he said.
“What we are looking for is a currency that can sustain workers and their families at least to the end of the month.”
On wage negotiations, Ajaero said discussions on a new national minimum wage had yet to begin, emphasising that the process must follow established legal procedures.
“The minimum wage has not been negotiated yet. It is a process that must follow the law,” he said, adding, “When it is time, we will commence negotiation ahead of its expiration. It cannot be rushed because of election timelines.”
He urged the government to take urgent measures to cushion the effects of inflation, warning that recent increases in fuel prices have intensified hardship across the country.
“We raised concerns when global developments began to impact fuel prices locally, and we called for intervention. The situation has not improved, and the burden on workers continues to increase,” he said.
Looking ahead to Workers’ Day, Ajaero said any protests would be limited to states that have yet to fully implement the approved minimum wage, rather than a coordinated nationwide action.
“Street protests, if any, will be in states that have not complied with the minimum wage implementation. It is not a general protest across the country,” he said.