Government workers in Ondo State have called for an upward review of the minimum wage from ₦73,000 to ₦256,950, citing the country’s worsening economic realities.

In a letter to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, conveyed through the state council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliate unions, the workers said the current wage had become unsustainable following the removal of fuel subsidy, rising inflation, and escalating costs of food, transportation, housing, and healthcare.

The demand, signed by NLC State Chairman Ademola Olapade and Secretary Akin Sunday, urged the governor to immediately set up a negotiation committee.

“Your Excellency, Ondo State is not just any state, it is a critical contributor to Nigeria’s oil revenue. As such, it is unacceptable that its workers and pensioners continue to live under wages that do not reflect the state’s strategic and financial status,” the letter read.

The unions referenced the ₦104,000 minimum wage recently approved in Imo State as proof that Ondo has the capacity to meet their demand.

They stressed that workers remain the engine of governance and economic productivity, while pensioners deserve dignified living conditions after years of service.
“Governance must not only be about policies and projects but also about people’s welfare and ability to live dignified lives,” the letter added.

The unions insisted that ₦256,950 better reflects the prevailing cost of survival for the average worker in Ondo State.