Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced an increase in the state’s minimum wage to N85,000, citing the government’s financial capacity to sustain the raise. During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the decision was based on the state’s economic strength and the high cost of living in Lagos, rather than any competitive motivations.

“I am glad to inform you that the minimum wage for Lagos, which was discussed with our union, is now N85,000,” the governor stated, highlighting the importance of providing workers with a wage that reflects Lagos’ economic realities. He explained that the increase was necessary to ensure that state employees earn a wage that aligns with the city’s premium cost of living.

Sanwo-Olu also noted that an earlier salary adjustment had been made this year, and he shared his goal of raising the minimum wage further to N100,000 by January 2025. “I hope to return in January to announce that we have raised Lagos’ minimum wage to N100,000, not to outshine anyone, but to ensure that our workers can earn a living wage and feel the impact of government support,” he said.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Lagos State workers, ensuring that the government continues to address their needs in a responsive and supportive manner.