Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour has called for a minimum wage of ₦100,000 for workers in Lagos, labelling the recent increase to ₦85,000 announced by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu as unrealistic.
In a statement released on Thursday, Rhodes-Vivour commended the governor for the wage increase but emphasized that it falls significantly short of addressing the unique cost-of-living challenges faced by Lagos workers.
He pointed out that Lagos has the highest intra-city public transportation costs in Nigeria, is the second most expensive city in terms of feeding, and has the highest rental costs in the country.
Rhodes-Vivour stated, “The recent increase in the minimum wage to N85,000 is commendable, but it is simply not enough.
“With meager investments in social housing programs and the soaring costs of living, workers in Lagos are struggling to make ends meet.”
Rhodes-Vivour further challenged Governor Sanwo-Olu to focus on investments that truly matter to Lagosians, stressing that despite higher budgets, there has been no corresponding improvement in the living conditions of 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%.