The Ondo State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), along with its affiliate unions, has formally demanded an immediate upward review of the state minimum wage to ₦256,950.
Currently, Ondo State workers earn the approved federal minimum wage of ₦73,000 per month, which the union describes as grossly inadequate given the worsening economic conditions.
In a letter signed by State Chairman Comrade Ademola Olapade and State Secretary Comrade Akin Sunday, the union cited the rising cost of food, transportation, housing, and healthcare, describing workers and pensioners as being under "perpetual economic suffocation."
They called for the minimum wage and pensions for retirees to be reviewed upward.
The union praised Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for prompt salary and pension payments and regular staff promotions but argued that Ondo, as an oil-producing state with improved federal allocations and good internally generated revenue, must lead in prioritizing worker welfare.
They referenced recently approved higher minimum wages in other states, such as Imo State's ₦104,000 minimum wage, urging Ondo not to lag behind but to set progressive standards.
The NLC chapter also urged the government to establish a negotiation committee comprising labor leaders, government officials, and stakeholders to deliberate on a new wage structure.