The Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Organisation (GAFAMORG) has declared its full support for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and other democratic groups demanding a substantial increase in the national minimum wage and the introduction of a genuine living wage for Nigerian workers.

 In a statement jointly signed by Babatunde Agunbiade and Ade Adeoye Adewumi, the organisation described the campaign for a living wage as more than an economic issue, insisting it is a struggle for democracy, human dignity, constitutional governance and public accountability.

 GAFAMORG commended organised labour for placing the welfare of Nigerian workers and their families at the centre of national discourse, stressing that a democratic nation cannot thrive while millions of workers remain trapped in poverty despite being employed.

  The organisation cited Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government, arguing that the provision places both a moral and legal obligation on government to ensure workers earn wages that guarantee a decent standard of living.

  It noted that the late human rights lawyer, Chief Gani Fawehinmi (SAN), devoted his life to defending workers, students, pensioners and other vulnerable groups, maintaining that democracy should be measured not only by elections but also by the quality of life of ordinary citizens.

  According to GAFAMORG, a living wage should reflect the prevailing cost of living, be reviewed periodically in line with inflation and be complemented by cost-of-living allowances during periods of economic hardship.

  The organisation also urged all tiers of government to faithfully implement agreed wage awards and ensure public resources are managed transparently with priority given to improving citizens’ welfare.

  It further called on labour unions, civil society organisations, professional bodies, students, market associations, faith-based organisations, the media and the private sector to unite behind the campaign for economic justice.
  Describing a living wage as an investment in national stability, productivity and sustainable development, GAFAMORG warned that a society where honest work cannot provide basic necessities risks rising inequality, declining productivity and a weakened democracy.

 As part of efforts to deepen the conversation, the organisation announced plans for a broad national consultation involving organised labour, civil society, academia, youth and women’s groups, professional associations and other stakeholders.

  The consultation, themed “What Should a Living Wage and Social Justice Agenda for Nigeria Look Like?”, is expected to generate practical recommendations to strengthen labour advocacy, promote democratic participation and build what it described as a new social contract anchored on justice, accountability, productivity and shared prosperity.

   GAFAMORG also announced that the 17th Chief Gani Fawehinmi Memorial Lecture and Civil Justice Legacy Project will hold on Saturday, September 5, 2026, under the theme: “Democracy, Human Rights and the Nigerian State: Living Wage, Security and Accountability in the Public Interest.”

  The organisation said the event would serve as a national platform for advancing practical solutions to economic justice, constitutional governance and the welfare of Nigerians in line with the enduring ideals of the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi.