Lagos’ N85,000 minimum wage commendable, but unrealistic – Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour

Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has recommended a N100,000 naira minimum for workers in Lagos, describing the recent increase to N85,000 announced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as unrealistic.

In a statement, the former State Gubernatorial candidate Under Labour Party said: “While the recent increase in the minimum wage to N85,000 is commendable, it significantly short of addressing the unique cost-of-living challenges faced by Lagos workers.

“Lagos has the highest intra-city public transportation costs in Nigeria, the second most expensive city in the country to feed and has the highest rental costs in the country, with meagre investments in social housing programs.”

Gbadebo also challenged the governor to invest more in the things that matter to Lagosians, noting that higher budgets has not translated to improved living conditions for Lagos residents.

He said: “It’s crucial to note that over 70% of Lagos State’s operating revenue comes from taxes, with PAYE (Pay As You Earn) contributing 45%.