The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it will soon commence negotiations with the Federal Government for a new national minimum wage, insisting that the current N70,000 wage is no longer sufficient to meet workers’ basic needs.

NLC President Joe Ajaero, represented by his deputy, Audu Amba, urged Nigerian workers to prepare for fresh negotiations, stressing that anything below N500,000 would be inadequate given the rising cost of living and inflation.

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) also called for improved wages and better welfare for Nigerian workers, as pressure mounts for a review of the current minimum wage.

Meanwhile, the Network of Abuja Left Groups has urged Nigerians to support organised labour’s demand as the August 11 deadline approaches.

The group argued that an increase in workers’ wages would boost purchasing power, improve living standards and stimulate economic activity across the country.