Nigerian state governors have opened discussions around the possibility of increasing the national minimum wage to as high as N100,000, in response to the growing economic hardship facing workers across the country.

The development was made known by the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, during a Sallah visit to President Bola Tinubu.

According to him, consultations are ongoing between state governments, the Federal Government, and organised labour to review workers’ salaries in a way that reflects current economic realities.

The proposal comes less than two years after the current minimum wage of N70,000 was implemented, highlighting how quickly inflation and rising living costs have affected purchasing power in Nigeria.

AbdulRazaq noted that governors are aware of the growing difficulties public sector workers are facing, especially with increases in food prices, transportation costs, housing, and basic utilities.

He explained that while there is agreement on the need to improve workers’ welfare, discussions are also focused on ensuring that any wage adjustment remains financially sustainable for both federal and state governments.

According to him, policymakers are trying to balance better earnings for workers with the need for governments to continue funding infrastructure, social services, and other development projects.

Labour unions have consistently demanded a wage structure that reflects real economic conditions, arguing that the current earnings are no longer sufficient for a decent standard of living.

Although no final decision has been reached, the mention of a potential N100,000 benchmark has intensified national conversations around inflation, public sector wages, and economic reforms.The discussions are expected to continue in the coming weeks as negotiations progress between all stakeholders involved.