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Full Transition Of Nigeria’s Minimum Wage From 1981 To Date

Published

5 months ago

Jul 2, 2024.

Nigerian labour unions demand an increase in the national minimum wage to ₦250,000 due to inflation and economic instability, but state governors reject this, citing affordability issues.

EKO HOT BLOG reports the Minimum wage policies are essential for ensuring a basic standard of living for workers.

In Nigeria, the national minimum wage has been a subject of significant debate and frequent adjustments over the years, reflecting economic conditions, inflation, and the cost of living.

Currently, there are ongoing discussions and pressures from labor unions for a further increase in the minimum wage.

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These unions cite the continued devaluation of the naira and a substantial rise in the cost of living due to inflation and economic instability, exacerbated by global economic pressures and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Labor unions argue that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet the basic needs of Nigerian workers. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have insisted that the Federal and State Governments must raise the minimum wage to ₦250,000 for workers in the country.

However, state governors have rejected this demand, pointing out that state governments cannot afford the proposed amount. This ongoing debate highlights the challenges in balancing fair wages with economic realities in Nigeria.

Here’s a detailed look at the history of minimum wage increments in Nigeria, including dates and amounts:

1. 1981 – ₦125 per month

The first official minimum wage in Nigeria was established in 1981, under President Shehu Shagari. The economy was relatively stable, and this wage was deemed acceptable for the living standards of the time.

2. 1991 – ₦250 per month

A decade later, the minimum wage was revised to ₦250 per month during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. This increment was part of broader economic reforms aimed at addressing inflation and other economic challenges.

3. 1998 – ₦3,000 per month

Under General Abdulsalami Abubakar, the minimum wage saw a significant jump to ₦3,000 per month. This increase was in response to the devaluation of the naira and the general increase in the cost of living over the previous years.

4. 2000 – ₦5,500 per month

In the democratic era, under President Olusegun Obasanjo, the minimum wage was increased to ₦5,500 per month in 2000. This was part of a series of policies aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerian workers following decades of military rule.

Minimum Wage 1981 To Date

5. 2004 – ₦7,500 per month

Continuing the trend of gradual increases, the minimum wage was raised to ₦7,500 per month in 2004. This increment was still under President Obasanjo’s administration and followed extensive negotiations with labour unions.

6. 2011 – ₦18,000 per month

After a long period of negotiations and strikes by various labour unions, the minimum wage was increased to ₦18,000 per month in 2011 under President Goodluck Jonathan. This significant increase was a response to the global economic situation and the rise in domestic inflation.

7. 2019 – ₦30,000 per month

The most recent adjustment came under President Muhammadu Buhari, who signed a new minimum wage bill into law in April 2019, setting the minimum wage at ₦30,000 per month. This came after several months of negotiations and was seen as a move to appease workers amidst growing inflation and dissatisfaction with economic policies.