By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
LAGOS STATE Government has announced an increase in the minimum wage for workers to ₦85,000, aiming to further raise it to ₦100,000 by January 2025.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made this announcement during a live television interview on Wednesday, October 16, 2024.
The decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to address the rising cost of living in Lagos, particularly as residents continue to face economic challenges.
During the interview, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the ₦85,000 wage increase is based on the financial capacity of Lagos State and is not intended to compete with other states.
He explained that the state had already raised workers’ salaries earlier in the year and remains committed to further improvements.
He also expressed the desire to see the minimum wage raised to ₦100,000 in 2025, stressing the importance of ensuring that workers receive a wage that reflects the high cost of living in the state.
Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu highlighted the need for a living wage that can genuinely support workers.
“We are focused on making sure our workers take home a wage that helps them navigate the realities of life in Lagos,” he said.
This wage adjustment also comes as negotiations between state governments and labour unions continue across Nigeria, with varying wage adjustments being implemented in different states.
Amid nationwide discussions surrounding minimum wage increases, the Lagos Governor reaffirmed the state’s commitment to offering a competitive wage based on its capacity.
He acknowledged the current economic strain on workers and underscored his administration’s efforts to ease the financial burden on them.
In addition to wage increases, Sanwo-Olu spoke about the state’s plans to improve public services, including transportation infrastructure and road projects.
He affirmed that the government remains dedicated to addressing challenges faced by Lagosians.
With this announcement, Lagos joins several states in Nigeria implementing higher minimum wages, following the Federal Government’s approval of a ₦70,000 minimum wage earlier this year.
Governor Sanwo-Olu assured Lagos residents that his administration is focused on ensuring financial stability for its workers while keeping an eye on further developments.
