Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced that the newly approved minimum wage of ₦70,000 applies to all workers, including those in the public and private sectors, as well as domestic staff such as maids and drivers. The bill, passed by both chambers of the National Assembly, was quickly approved after being transmitted by President Bola Tinubu.

During Tuesday’s plenary session, Akpabio emphasized that employers cannot pay below this amount, regardless of the worker's role. He also highlighted the reduction of the wage review period from five years to three years due to rising living costs.

The bill, which replaces the ₦30,000 minimum wage set by the National Minimum Wage Act of 2019, is seen as a landmark legislation aiming to address current economic challenges. Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele noted that ₦70,000 was agreed upon through negotiations and described the adjustment as a short-term measure to alleviate economic pressures.