The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Ondo State Council, along with its affiliated unions, has formally petitioned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, urging an immediate increase in the minimum wage for workers in Ondo State to N256,950.
Currently, the minimum wage stands at N73,000, a figure the labour unions argue is insufficient to sustain workers amid the prevailing economic challenges in the country.
In a letter dated September 19, 2025, addressed to Governor Aiyedatiwa, the NLC also called for a revision of pension benefits for retired state employees.
The correspondence was endorsed by the State Chairman, Comrade Ademola Olapade, and the State Secretary, Comrade Akin Sunday.
While the letter, reviewed by LEADERSHIP in Akure, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his administration’s consistent payment of salaries and pensions, as well as the timely promotion of qualified staff, it emphasized the urgent need for wage adjustments.
The unions highlighted that their request stems from pressing economic realities, including inflation, rising living costs, and a fundamental duty to uphold the dignity and welfare of both active workers and retirees.
The letter states, “On behalf of the workforce and pensioners of Ondo State, we hereby submit a formal and urgent appeal for a substantial revision of the minimum wage.”
“Your Excellency, it is widely acknowledged that Nigeria’s economy has been severely impacted by inflation, currency depreciation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and escalating expenses in essential sectors such as food, housing, transport, and healthcare. These factors have drastically diminished the purchasing power of wages, leaving many workers and pensioners struggling financially.”
“Despite these challenges, Ondo State, as an oil-producing region, has witnessed significant growth in its internally generated revenue (IGR) and federal allocations, buoyed by favorable oil market conditions and subsidy inflows.”
“This financial improvement was a key point during the last minimum wage negotiations, where the State Government committed to revisiting workers’ welfare in line with any increase in revenue.”
“Furthermore, the recent decision by Imo State-a non-oil-producing state-to raise its minimum wage to N104,000 for workers and pensioners alike sets a commendable precedent. This action underscores the necessity for governments nationwide to prioritize the welfare of their workforce to foster sustainable governance and social harmony.”
