The Ondo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and its affiliate unions have urged Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to immediately increase the state’s minimum wage to N256,950.
In a letter dated September 19, 2025, and signed by the State Chairman, Ademola Olapade, and the State Secretary, Akin Sunday, the unions stated that the current minimum wage of N73,000, which was implemented last year, is no longer sustainable in light of Nigeria’s harsh economic realities.
The NLC also demanded an upward review of pensions for retirees in the state.
The letter read in part: “We write on behalf of the workers and pensioners of Ondo State to make a formal and urgent demand for a comprehensive upward review of the new minimum wage in the State.
“This demand is based on multiple compelling factors rooted in economic reality, the rising cost of living, and a moral obligation to protect the dignity and welfare of workers and retirees.”
The NLC noted that inflation, currency devaluation, fuel subsidy removal, and rising costs of food, housing, transportation, and healthcare have eroded the value of wages, leaving workers and pensioners in “a state of perpetual economic suffocation.”
They contended that as an oil-producing state, Ondo has benefited from greater internally generated revenue (IGR) and higher federal allocations as a result of enhanced oil revenues and subsidy savings.
The NLC reminded the administration of its previous promise to evaluate wages when the state’s revenue profile improved.
The letter cited Imo State’s recent ratification of a N104,000 minimum wage, calling it “bold and commendable,” and urged Ondo to establish a higher bar as an oil-rich state.
“It is only just and reasonable that Ondo State, which is blessed with oil wealth, does not lag behind but instead leads in setting progressive standards for others to emulate,” the union stressed.
The workers also encouraged the governor to form a negotiation committee of government officials, labor leaders, and other stakeholders to discuss the suggested wage structure.
While thanking the government for regular salary and pension payments, as well as promotions, the NLC highlighted that true governance must prioritize people’s well-being.
“A government that pays its workers and pensioners a just wage is a government that honors the social contract it holds with its people,” the union said.
