Labor leaders have voiced worry about the deteriorating economic conditions of workers in Nigeria eighty-eight years after trade unions were granted legal recognition. They claim that growing inflation and living expenses have reduced the value of workers' incomes.

At the Nigeria Rights of Workers Summit 2026, which was held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, on Friday to mark 88 years of workers' organization and trade unionism in the nation, labor leaders made this statement.

The summit, themed “The Rights of Workers: Decent Work and a Just Economy in Nigeria,” brought together labour leaders, government officials, workers, employers, civil society organisations and representatives of the National Industrial Court to examine the state of workers’ rights and welfare in Nigeria.

As attendees voiced concerns about inflation, growing living expenses, workplace safety, discrimination, job insecurity, and the protection of casual and other non-traditional workers, the event's discussions centred on workers' compensation across the 36 states, local governments, and the private sector.

The national minimum wage is one of the biggest issues affecting Nigerian workers, according to Adewale Adeyanju (Amba), Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, who spoke on behalf of Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC.

He claimed that economic realities have surpassed the present minimum salary of ?70,000, making it more challenging for workers to satisfy their fundamental demands.

“The current ?70,000 minimum wage can no longer adequately respond to the realities confronting Nigerian workers, particularly with the rising cost of living,” he said.

Amba urged the authorities to consider an upward review that would reflect current economic realities, stating that new negotiations with the federal and state governments were necessary due to the expiration of the current pay arrangement.

Ekpa Stanley, the summit's facilitator and executive director of Call a Lawyer, stated that the purpose of the gathering was to critically assess the advancements made and the obstacles still facing Nigerian trade unionism in addition to honouring its heritage.

He said, “This summit is not only about celebrating 88 years of trade unionism; it is also an opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved, the challenges that remain, and what must be done to guarantee decent work for Nigerian workers.”

Source