Minimum wage: Working People United explains why Nigerians should back Tinubu’s re-election bid
Workers Unite to Support Tinubu’s 2027 Re-election Bid
ABUJA—Working People United emphasized the need for Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign in 2027. The call was made during the organization’s Good Governance Summit 2026 held in the capital on Thursday.
Comrade Prince William Akporehe, National Coordinator of WOFU, acknowledged the current economic hardships under Tinubu’s administration but cautioned that avoiding necessary reforms could lead to greater difficulties. “Reforms are painful, but avoiding them would be more dangerous,” Akporehe stated.
He highlighted Tinubu’s commitment to reviewing the current minimum wage as a positive sign for Nigerian workers. Akporehe reaffirmed WOFU’s mandate to advocate for good governance and implement reforms beneficial to all citizens.
Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President and chairman of the summit, addressed the feasibility of the existing N70,000 minimum wage, suggesting a review is necessary. Similarly, Minister of Labor and Employment, Mohammad Dingyadi, reiterated the administration’s commitment to translating policies into improved economic opportunities and social protection for workers.
Billy Gillis-Harry, National Coordinator of Operations and Programs and President of Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners, called for increased worker involvement in government policy formulation. He emphasized that policies are unlikely to succeed without the backing of workers from various economic sectors.
“The goal is for working people to actively engage in the policymaking process,” Gillis-Harry remarked. He noted that the Working People United movement aims to ensure that workers have a voice in government decisions rather than merely responding to policies after they have been enacted.
The conference, attended by over 29 labor and union leaders, focused on evaluating the impact of Tinubu’s policies and exploring ways to enhance their implementation. Gillis-Harry stressed that an informed electorate and active worker participation are crucial for building a stronger Nigeria.
He welcomed comments from Gbajabiamila regarding the unsustainability of the current minimum wage, expressing support for a potential increase. “A single breadwinner cannot maintain a sustainable livelihood on N70,000,” he said, proposing a more substantial wage adjustment.
Gillis-Harry pointed out rising living costs as key reasons for the need to review worker compensation. He expressed confidence in the Tinubu administration’s engagement with labor on vital national policies, emphasizing the long-term benefits of the current reforms.
The event concluded with a call for unity among workers to assess government policies and advocate for their interests.
