The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has described the recent proposal by state governors for an upward review of the national minimum wage to N100,000 as evidence of the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms on state finances.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Nwankpa, and Secretary, Dapo Okubanjo, the group said the governors’ position marks a significant shift from their stance in 2024 when some states expressed reservations about the Federal Government’s proposal of a N70,000 minimum wage.
TMSG noted that several states have since gone beyond the N70,000 benchmark by implementing higher wage structures. According to the group, Lagos and Rivers states currently pay up to N85,000, while Bayelsa, Niger, Enugu and Akwa Ibom states pay N80,000. It also cited Ogun, Delta, Benue and Osun states as paying between N75,000 and N77,000, while Imo State adopted a N104,000 minimum wage in September 2025.
The group argued that many states previously struggled to pay the former N30,000 minimum wage but have experienced improved financial capacity following reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, which increased allocations to sub-national governments from the federation account.
According to TMSG, the governors’ proposal for a higher national minimum wage amounts to an acknowledgment that states are now in a stronger financial position. It also pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects, improved pension payments and data from the Debt Management Office indicating reduced dependence on domestic borrowing for salary payments by state governments.
The group maintained that the governors’ call for a wage increase demonstrates confidence in the sustainability of current revenue levels and reflects efforts to address rising living costs.
TMSG further expressed optimism that any future review of the national minimum wage would take prevailing economic realities into account and urge Nigerians to view the current administration’s policies as being aimed at improving citizens’ welfare despite criticisms from opposition groups.