NLC Sets July 2026 For New Minimum Wage Negotiation

Nigerian workers to begin a new minimum wage negotiation in July 2026 as current pay falls short of basic living needs.

NLC and TUC leaders addressing press on new minimum wage negotiation at Geneva conference

Nigerian workers will start pushing for a new national minimum wage in July 2026. This timeline was announced by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.

The revelation came during a joint media briefing at the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland. Labour leaders made it clear that the current pay structure needs an urgent review.

Many state governors already agree that the existing N70,000 minimum wage falls short. It can no longer cover the basic needs of an average worker.

Despite this shared concern, the unions have a strict warning for the governors. Labour insists that state chief executives must not dictate a new salary figure on their own. Instead, any adjustment must go through the proper negotiation channel with workers' representatives.

The unions also addressed lingering welfare issues. They called on the government to clear all outstanding gratuity arrears owed to retirees.

Moving forward, the NLC and TUC promised to stay focused on the upcoming review. They remain committed to engaging relevant stakeholders to secure better welfare for Nigerian workers.