May Day: Edo workers seek review of N75,000 minimum wage
Organized Labor in Edo State Calls for Minimum Wage Increase
Benin City, Edo State — On Friday, members of organized labor in Edo State urged a revision of the current minimum wage of N75,000, citing the impact of rising inflation and escalating living costs as workers gathered to mark Workers’ Day on May 1, 2026.
Bernard Eguakhide, the State chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Joseph James Wasah, his counterpart from the Trade Union Congress (TUC), voiced their concerns during separate speeches delivered in Benin City.
Eguakhide stated that over 70 percent of workers are spending a significant portion of their income on basic necessities. He pointed to current inflation rates, which he estimated to be between 28 and 30 percent, along with food prices and transportation costs having increased by more than 50 percent.
“The result is clear. Workers are becoming poorer despite working harder; wages are no longer sufficient to guarantee a decent standard of living,” Eguakhide remarked. He emphasized that the current minimum wage is inadequate for workers’ commuting needs as well.
Eguakhide also expressed disappointment regarding Governor Monday Okpebholo’s unfulfilled commitment to hire 3,000 primary school teachers. He urged the governor to ensure that teachers’ salaries are paid alongside those of core civil servants by the 25th of each month.
Reflecting on this year’s Workers’ Day theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work,” Eguakhide noted that it captures the harsh realities faced by workers, exacerbated by global conflicts affecting crude oil prices.
In a similar vein, TUC Chairman Joseph James Wasah criticized adjustments made by the Edo State Accountant-General concerning the N75,000 minimum wage. He reiterated the need for a wage review, arguing that rising inflation and food and fuel costs have eroded the wage’s value.
Wasah advocated for a living wage that goes beyond mere survival, stating that it is essential for dignity. He highlighted the urgent need to assess current earnings, which he said do not meet basic needs, due to ongoing inflation and widespread hardship.
“There is a pressing need for a Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) to support all workers amid rising fuel prices linked to global crises,” he added. He warned that without intervention, workers would continue to suffer.
Governor Okpebholo, represented by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, acknowledged the concerns raised by organized labor regarding the contributory pension scheme. He announced the formation of a high-powered committee to review these complaints and also highlighted several achievements of his administration over the past year.
