The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Chibuzo Okereke, has vowed to scrap Nigeria’s minimum wage system if elected, insisting that workers deserve a living wage that reflects the rising cost of living. In an interview with Nigerian Tribune, Okereke argued that negotiating minimum wages every few years was inadequate, as
The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, Chibuzo Okereke, has vowed to scrap Nigeria’s minimum wage system if elected, insisting that workers deserve a living wage that reflects the rising cost of living.
In an interview with Nigerian Tribune, Okereke argued that negotiating minimum wages every few years was inadequate, as the prices of goods and services could rise significantly before another review. He illustrated his point with the example of a phone that could increase in price from ₦20,000 to ₦50,000, saying workers’ earnings should be able to respond to such economic changes.
The LP candidate said his proposed labour reforms would go beyond salary adjustments to address workers’ overall conditions of service. He listed decent pay, affordable housing, healthcare, food security, job security, pensions, gratuities, training opportunities and fair promotions among the areas requiring attention. Okereke maintained that workers’ welfare should not be treated as charity, adding that his administration would demand productivity, quality service and value for money while ensuring employees receive their legitimate benefits.
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On subsidy policy, Okereke pledged to prioritise direct support for citizens rather than subsidising systems he believes could be captured by vested interests. “I have said I will subsidise the people, not the system,” he said, adding that Nigerians needed support to improve their livelihoods and thrive. He also said his proposed reforms would seek to make public service more attractive through improved welfare, functional healthcare support and a fair reward system.
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