Organized Labour has commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for approving a new minimum wage of ₦85,000 for state employees. Although the union had hoped for a wage above ₦100,000 due to Lagos’ high living costs, they described the announcement as a positive step forward.
Sanwo-Olu, in an interview with Channels Television, explained that the wage decision reflects what the state can afford, considering Lagos’ economic realities. He also expressed hopes of increasing the minimum wage to ₦100,000 in January, aiming to provide a sustainable living wage for workers. Labour leaders welcomed the governor’s remarks, emphasizing the importance of aligning wages with Lagos’ unique costs in transportation, accommodation, and utilities.
Labour representatives, including Funmi Sessi of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Ishola Adejumo of the Radio, Television, Theatre, and Arts Workers Union, praised the decision as timely amidst economic challenges. They urged the governor to maintain the BRT transport subsidy, enhance infrastructure, and ensure safety on the waterways following recent accidents. Both leaders emphasized that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub, must lead in setting fair standards for workers’ welfare.
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