The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially kicked off internal consultations to review the national minimum wage, responding to mounting economic pressure and calls from organized labor for a substantial salary upgrade.

 

Dr. Kamil Shoretire, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, revealed the development in Abuja during a capacity-building workshop organized for labor correspondents.

 

### Internal Talks Underway

 

According to Shoretire, high-level discussions are already taking place within government circles as key stakeholders prepare for formal negotiations on a revised wage structure. While a finalized timetable has not yet been publicly released, the preliminary groundwork is actively underway.

 

Shoretire noted that the government plans to make the full roadmap public as soon as formal multi-party discussions kick off. He also disclosed that federal officials are holding targeted talks with workers across specific sectors to resolve ongoing disputes regarding salaries, allowances, and outstanding benefits.

 

### Inflation Drives Demand for Wage Adjustments

 

The push for a new baseline salary comes amid severe inflationary pressures, with workers across the country facing rising costs for staple foods, transportation, housing, and utilities.

 

* **2024 Benchmark:** The current national minimum wage was set at **₦70,000** in 2024 following extensive negotiations between government bodies, private sector leaders, and trade unions.

* **Labour's Demand:** In light of reduced purchasing power, labor unions have pushed for a new minimum wage benchmark of **₦500,000**, arguing that the existing pay floor no longer covers basic living expenses for average working households.

 

With consultations now active at the ministry level, organized labor and Nigerian workers await the official announcement of the tripartite committee to formally begin negotiations.