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The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has called on the federal and state governments to prioritise the welfare of Nigerian workers by implementing a living wage across all sectors. The call was made in a statement commemorating International Workers’ Day 2025.
In the statement signed by its Media and Communications Officer, Robert Egbe, CAPPA commended Nigerian workers for their resilience, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s economy. The organisation, however, expressed concern over the persistent challenges workers face—including poor wages, unsafe working conditions, exploitation, and a shrinking civic space—amid a worsening economic environment.
Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and other relevant bodies, CAPPA highlighted the adverse impact of inflation and poor policy decisions on workers’ livelihoods between 2024 and 2025. It warned that, according to the World Bank, about 13 million more Nigerians are projected to slip below the poverty line by the end of 2025, adding to the existing 129 million already living in poverty.
The group criticised the influence of neo-liberal policies promoted by international financial institutions such as the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF), blaming these for much of the country’s economic distress. According to CAPPA, the conditionalities tied to loans and grants have deepened inequality and poverty.
While acknowledging the federal government’s approval of a N70,000 minimum wage in 2024, CAPPA argued that the figure still falls short of meeting basic needs amid soaring inflation and rising living costs. The group further noted that at least 20 states are yet to implement the new minimum wage for local government workers and primary school teachers, worsening the plight of public servants.
Referencing a recent Oxfam report, CAPPA pointed out the stark contrast between the soaring wealth of Nigeria’s richest employers and the stagnant real wages of workers. It noted that the current minimum wage of N70,000 holds the same dollar value as N125 did in the 1980s, indicating that real wages have remained stagnant for over four decades.
In another troubling revelation, CAPPA cited comments by Interior Minister Olubunmi Ojo, who disclosed that 90 percent of expatriates in Nigeria are occupying positions meant for citizens—and without valid work permits. The organisation condemned the situation, warning that it denies qualified Nigerians job opportunities and reduces the country to a dumping ground for unqualified foreign labour.
“This day serves as a powerful reminder of the continued struggle of Nigerian workers for dignity, equity, and safety in the workplace,” CAPPA stated. “Beyond fair pay, workers are also demanding the right to organise, to be heard, and to operate in environments free of harassment and discrimination.”
The group urged government at all levels and employers of labour to take concrete steps towards fair compensation, improved working conditions, and inclusive policies that support all categories of workers—especially women, youth, and those in the informal sector.
CAPPA also encouraged labour unions to use the Workers’ Day celebration as a platform to intensify advocacy for legislative reforms and better welfare for Nigerian workers.
“It is imperative that government listens and acts decisively. Implementing a living wage and people-first policies is not only just—it is necessary for national survival and progress,” the statement concluded.
