Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved an additional ₦50,000 for all state workers for the month of May, in a move aimed at cushioning the impact of rising living costs and fuel prices.
The announcement was made during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena. The event, themed “Insecurity, Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” brought together government officials, labour leaders, and workers across the state.
Represented by his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, the governor said the intervention reflects the administration’s commitment to easing economic pressures on workers.
“Our job has always been to make sure that the city we are building is also a city that works for you,” he said. “For this May, there will be an additional ₦50,000 for every worker in Lagos State, irrespective of grade levels.”
Sanwo-Olu noted that the decision was partly driven by the ripple effects of global economic challenges, including rising fuel costs. He added that the measure would be reviewed as the government continues to monitor economic realities.
The governor reiterated that workers’ welfare remains central to his administration’s agenda, stressing that public servants are the “living infrastructure” of Lagos. He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving working conditions, including the implementation of a competitive minimum wage, expanded healthcare coverage, and housing initiatives.
He also pointed to the efforts of the Lagos State Health Management Authority through its “Ilera Eko Easy Pay” scheme, which allows residents to access health insurance with flexible payment options.
On pensions, Sanwo-Olu said the Lagos State Pension Commission has improved prompt payment to retirees, disbursing over ₦1 billion while introducing post-service healthcare and pre-retirement support programmes.
The governor commended labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, for maintaining constructive engagement with the government, despite occasional disagreements.
In his remarks, the Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, described workers as critical partners in governance and economic development, assuring continued efforts to improve service conditions.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Afolabi Ayantayo, praised the administration’s consistent investment in workers’ welfare, noting that timely salary and pension payments have strengthened labour relations.
Labour leaders, including NLC Lagos Chairperson Agnes Funmi Sessi and TUC representative Aladetan Abiodun, acknowledged the government’s efforts but called for further action.
They urged a review of the current minimum wage from ₦85,000 to ₦250,000, citing rising inflation and the high cost of living in Lagos as major concerns affecting workers’ purchasing power.
The May Day event served as both a celebration of workers’ contributions and a platform for renewed dialogue on improving labour conditions and ensuring social justice in Nigeria’s economic hub.
