NIGERIA: Lagos Approves ₦50,000 Wage Award to Cushion Rising Costs

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Lagos State Government has approved a ₦50,000 wage award for public sector workers as part of measures to ease the impact of rising living costs.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the approval during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

The governor, represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, said the wage award would apply for the month of May.

The development was disclosed during his address at the Workers’ Day event, where he acknowledged prevailing economic pressures affecting workers.

“For the month of May, Lagos State Government has approved an additional ₦50,000 for all workers,” he said.

“We are aware of prevailing economic challenges, including increasing fuel prices and global pressure. This decision is to support our workforce during this period.”

Sanwo-Olu commended workers for their contributions to the state’s growth, describing them as central to Lagos’ continued development.

“Lagos is not great because of its government. It is great because of its workers… who keep the system functioning,” he added.

The governor also highlighted ongoing efforts to address housing and transportation challenges faced by workers, noting that investments in affordable housing and rail infrastructure are ongoing.

He said the state’s rent-to-own housing scheme allows a five per cent initial payment, with flexible repayment plans designed to improve accessibility.

On transportation, he noted that expansion of the rail system is aimed at improving mobility and boosting productivity across the state.

The Lagos State Government also reaffirmed its commitment to sustained pension payments and continued engagement with organised labour to address w

orkers’ welfare concerns.