Ondo NLC Pushes For New Minimum wage Of ₦256,950

The Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress has demanded an increase in the state’s minimum wage from ₦73,000 to ₦256,950.

In a letter addressed to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and dated September 19, the union’s chairman, Ademola Olapade, and secretary, Akin Sunday, said the demand also covered pensions for retirees, citing the rising cost of living. They argued that inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and soaring prices of food, housing, transport, and healthcare had left workers and pensioners struggling to survive.

The labour leaders noted that Ondo, being an oil-producing state, has benefitted from higher revenue inflows through improved internally generated revenue and federal allocations. They said workers’ welfare must reflect the state’s financial strength.

The NLC pointed to Imo State’s recent approval of a ₦104,000 minimum wage as an example Ondo should surpass, stressing that the state should lead by setting progressive standards for worker welfare.

While commending the governor for timely payment of salaries, pensions, and promotions, the union urged the government to set up a negotiation committee made up of officials, labour leaders, and stakeholders to deliberate on the proposed wage.

The letter described workers as the engine of governance and pensioners as citizens who deserve dignity after years of service. It called on the government to prioritise welfare as a core part of governance, not just policies and projects.

The NLC maintained that a fair wage would reflect current economic realities and reaffirm the government’s social contract with its people. It concluded by thanking the governor for his efforts so far and expressed hope for a favourable response.