Ondo NLC demands ₦256,950 minimum wage

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Labour unions under the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ondo State Council, have formally written Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to demand an upward review of the minimum wage for workers in the state to ₦256,950.

The unions noted that the current ₦73,000 wage no longer meets workers’ needs in the face of rising inflation, fuel subsidy removal and the increasing cost of living. They also demanded a review of pensions for retirees.

In a letter dated September 19, 2025, and signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and State Secretary, Comrade Akin Sunday, the NLC commended Aiyedatiwa for prompt payment of salaries, pensions and timely promotions but stressed that workers’ welfare must reflect economic realities.

The letter reads, “We write on behalf of the workers and pensioners of Ondo State to make a formal and urgent demand for a comprehensive upward review of the new minimum wage in the State. This demand is based on multiple compelling factors rooted in economic reality, the rising cost of living and a moral obligation to protect the dignity and welfare of workers and retirees.

“Your Excellency, it is no longer news that the Nigerian economy has been severely battered by inflation, currency devaluation, the removal of fuel subsidies and skyrocketing costs of food, housing, transportation and healthcare. These factors have eroded the value of wages and left the average worker and pensioner in a state of perpetual economic suffocation.”

The NLC argued that Ondo, as an oil-producing state with increased internally generated revenue and federal allocations, must not lag behind.

It also cited Imo State’s approval of a ₦104,000 minimum wage as a signal that governments must prioritise workers’ welfare.

“While anticipating your Excellency’s favourable response to our demand, please accept our warmest regards. Yours in the service of workers and pensioners,” the letter concluded.