Minimum Wage: Full List of States and Governors Paying ₦80,000 and Above
- Several Nigerian states have revised their minimum wage structures, with Imo State leading the pack at ₦104,000
- A growing number of governors are now offering ₦80,000 and above, signalling a shift in labour policy amid rising economic demands
- The report outlines the full list of states implementing the new wage benchmark and the motivations behind their decisions
Several Nigerian states previously announced new minimum wage structures, with some exceeding the ₦80,000 benchmark.
The move has been widely interpreted as a response to growing economic pressures and calls for better compensation for workers across the country.

Source: Twitter
Imo State Leads with ₦104,000 Minimum Wage
Imo State currently tops the chart with a minimum wage of ₦104,000. The state government reportedly implemented the increase to reflect the rising cost of living and to demonstrate its commitment to worker welfare. The announcement has drawn attention nationwide, positioning Imo as a frontrunner in wage reform.
Rivers and Lagos Offer ₦85,000 Minimum Wage
Rivers and Lagos States have both set their minimum wage at ₦85,000. Officials in Rivers stated that the adjustment was aimed at easing financial burdens on civil servants, while Lagos authorities cited the need to maintain competitiveness and support the city’s large workforce. The decision has been welcomed by labour unions in both states.
States Paying ₦80,000 Minimum Wage
A number of states have aligned their minimum wage with the ₦80,000 threshold, signalling a broader trend of wage restructuring. These include:
- Niger State: Government representatives confirmed the new wage structure, describing it as a “balanced and sustainable” approach.
- Akwa Ibom State: Officials said the ₦80,000 minimum wage was part of a broader economic relief package.
- Bayelsa State: The administration reportedly approved the wage increase following consultations with labour leaders.
- Enugu State: Authorities stated that the new wage was designed to improve living standards and reduce poverty.
- Oyo State: The government announced the ₦80,000 wage as a measure to boost morale and productivity among public workers.

Source: Twitter
National Implications of the ₦80,000 Minimum Wage Benchmark
The growing list of states adopting ₦80,000 and above as minimum wage has sparked discussions about the potential for a nationwide wage review. Labour analysts have noted that these developments could influence federal policy and encourage other states to follow suit.
While reactions have varied, many Nigerians have expressed optimism that the new wage structures will lead to improved economic stability and better quality of life for workers.
The trend also underscores the evolving role of state governments in shaping labour policy independently of federal directives.
Nigerian gov announces over N100k minimum wages
Legit.ng earlier reported that Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo has increased the new minimum wage for civil servants in the state from N76,000 to N104,000.
The governor also announced an increase in the new minimum wage for doctors from N215,000 to N503,000. He further said the minimum wage of teachers in tertiary institutions was raised from N119,000 to N222,000.
Uzodimma explained that the people of Imo have faced a series of challenges since his administration took over the office, citing the COVID-19 pandemic, insecurity, the dispute over the minimum wage, the economic hardship as a result of the reform and the general subsidy removal.
Source: Legit.ng