A growing wave of criticism is building against 20 state governors who have yet to implement the proposed N70,000 minimum wage, weeks after the Federal Government signaled support for a nationwide wage adjustment.
Labour unions, civil society groups, and economic analysts have accused the governors of foot-dragging on a policy that many see as vital to cushioning the impact of inflation, fuel subsidy removal, and a weakening naira.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have been vocal in their demands, warning that the delay amounts to a betrayal of workers and could trigger industrial actions in the affected states.
“We will not tolerate excuses,” said TUC President Festus Osifo. “If states can afford bloated political appointments and security votes, they can afford to pay workers a decent wage.”
So far, only a handful of states—Lagos, Edo, and a few others—have publicly committed to or started implementing the wage increase. The rest cite revenue constraints, pending negotiations with labour, or ongoing fiscal reviews.
Defending the delay, some governors argue that their state revenues—particularly in non-oil-producing or agrarian states – are insufficient to support the proposed increase without federal assistance or a restructuring of fiscal allocations.
A statement from one northern governor’s office said, “We are not opposed to a living wage. But we must be realistic. Without additional support or internal reforms, we risk destabilizing other critical sectors like health, education, and infrastructure.”
However, critics have dismissed these claims, pointing to opaque spending, inflated overheads, and what they describe as misplaced priorities in several states.
The delay is fueling worker discontent nationwide. With food prices soaring, transport costs climbing, and utility bills rising, many public sector employees say they are struggling to meet basic needs.
“We come to work but can’t afford to feed our families,” said Esther, a primary school teacher in Kogi State. “They keep saying the economy is recovering—but for who?”
Economists warn that prolonged delays in implementing the new minimum wage could hurt productivity, worsen brain drain from the public sector, and inflame social unrest.
“Low wages are not just an economic issue—they’re a political risk,” said Dr. Opeyemi Aina, a labour economist. “The government must treat wage reform as part of national stability, not just a fiscal line item.”
With the Federal Government and organized labour pushing for a new national minimum wage bill, pressure will likely mount on state governments to either comply or face consequences. Some unions are already threatening state-wide strikes in the coming weeks if action is not taken.
For now, the governors are walking a tightrope—balancing fiscal limitations against rising public expectations in a volatile economic climate.
The delay in minimum wage implementation is shaping up to be a major test of political will, fiscal discipline, and social responsibility at the state level. For many Nigerian workers, the outcome could determine whether 2025 brings relief – or more struggle.
