Lagos keeps highest minimum wage, rolls out N50,000 support for workers
Governor Sanwo-Olu Announces Economic Support for Workers at Labour Day Celebration
LAGOS — Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers during the 2026 World Labour Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Stadium. He announced a N50,000 economic support package intended to assist workers amid rising living costs.
Sanwo-Olu’s address was delivered by his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, at the annual event, which drew thousands of workers, union leaders, and residents. The economic support initiative is set to take effect in May, with plans for a subsequent review.
In his remarks, the governor characterized workers as essential to the state’s progress, acknowledging their resilience and contributions. He emphasized, “There is a particular kind of courage that does not make headlines… That is the kind of courage I have seen in the workers of this great State.”
Addressing the theme of the celebration, “Insecurity, Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the various challenges confronting workers and committed to actionable solutions. He stated, “It is a diagnosis—an honest accounting of the conditions that stand between the Nigerian worker and a life of genuine dignity.”
The governor underscored Lagos State’s position as the highest-paying state for minimum wage, noting that it exceeds the national benchmark of N70,000, with Lagos setting its minimum wage at N85,000 to better align with local economic realities. He mentioned ongoing discussions with labor unions regarding further wage adjustments to manage the impact of escalating fuel costs.
In the realm of healthcare, Sanwo-Olu highlighted reforms under the Lagos State Health Management Authority, including flexible payment options aimed at reducing the financial burden on workers. “No worker should have to choose between seeing a doctor and feeding their children,” he stated, referencing the Ilera Eko Easy Pay system.
Additionally, he indicated that retirees would also benefit from expanded healthcare access as part of broader social protection initiatives.
On transportation, the governor pointed to advancements in the rail system designed to alleviate commuting issues for workers. He noted that the Blue Line rail has transported over five million passengers, while the Red Line has received 24 new train cars. “We are building a city where the length of your commute is no longer determined by the size of your wallet,” he said. Over N102 billion has been designated in the 2026 budget for rail infrastructure development, which includes ongoing work on the Green Line project.
Sanwo-Olu announced measures to enhance access to affordable housing for workers through targeted programs. He revealed nearly 11,000 housing units have already been completed, with over 14,000 more expected by the end of 2026, supported by initiatives like the Rent-To-Own scheme.
The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to pension payments and retirement welfare for public servants, stating, “We owe you a retirement worth living.” He highlighted recent distributions of official vehicles to senior civil servants in various sectors, emphasizing the administration’s ongoing support for its workforce.
Sanwo-Olu connected security to productivity, stating that a safe environment is essential for effective work. He assured attendees that the government is enhancing surveillance systems and fostering collaborations with federal security agencies.
As he looks toward the final year of his administration, he expressed a focus on completing important projects, emphasizing, “The measure of these eight years will not be what we announced. It will be what we finished.”
In closing, he acknowledged that while labor discussions have not always been smooth, he remains committed to dialogue. He celebrated the contributions of workers, stating, “Lagos is not great because of its government. Lagos is great because of you.”
