Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed plans to raise the N70,000 national minimum wage to N85,000 for workers in the state.
Speaking during a live interview on Channels TV’s “One-On-One with Babajide Sanwo-Olu” on Wednesday evening, the governor confirmed the decision had already been discussed with labour unions.
He explained that the higher wage reflects the state’s capacity to afford it and addresses the elevated cost of living in Lagos. He also hinted at the possibility of further wage increases next year.
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Sanwo-Olu said, “You also mentioned about the minimum wage and what do I need to throw in for my people. I’m glad to announce that the minimum wage for Lagos which we have discussed with our unions is N85,000 today and it is not a competition.
“It is a function of affordability and capacity but we know too well that when people live in Lagos, it has a premium in terms of cost of living.”
“We increased our salary earlier in the year and would like to come in January and say I’ve been able to increase the minimum wage in Lagos to N100,000.”
The governor also touched on plans to expand the state’s transport system, particularly rail, with a goal of connecting all five districts.
Recall that in July, President Tinubu approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers and committed to reviewing the wage law every three years.