The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has proposed a new national minimum wage of ₦100,000 as part of efforts to address the economic challenges facing Nigerian workers amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.

Chairman of the NGF and Governor of AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq disclosed the proposal in a statement shared by the Kwara State Government on Saturday, saying the move was informed by the growing financial pressure on workers across the country.

According to AbdulRazaq, state governments recognise the urgent need to improve workers’ welfare in line with current economic realities and are engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to reach an agreement on a sustainable wage structure.

“We are actively engaging with the Federal Government and organised labour to arrive at a wage structure that is fair to workers and sustainable for government finances,” he said.

The governor explained that discussions are focused on balancing improved earnings for workers with the need for state governments to continue funding essential public services and development projects.

He noted that while workers deserve better remuneration, policymakers must also consider the fiscal realities confronting subnational governments.

If adopted, the proposed ₦100,000 minimum wage would represent a significant increase from the current national minimum wage of ₦70,000.