Sowore proposes ₦500,000 minimum wage, unveils drone-led security vision

Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has sparked fresh national debate after advocating a ₦500,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers while also proposing a technology-driven approach to tackling insecurity.

Sowore made the comments during separate public appearances this week, where he addressed the worsening economic realities facing Nigerians and outlined his vision for security reform ahead of the 2027 general election.

The activist argued that Nigerian workers, especially those in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and security, deserve wages capable of sustaining decent living standards amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.

According to Sowore, a ₦500,000 minimum wage is not excessive given the country’s current economic situation.

Sowore Says Nigerian Workers Deserve Living Wages

Speaking on workers’ welfare, Sowore maintained that police officers, soldiers, teachers, doctors, nurses, and other public servants should earn salaries that reflect the risks and responsibilities attached to their jobs.

“A minimum wage of ₦500,000 is not too much for Nigerian workers,” Sowore stated.

He further argued that employees in high-risk and essential sectors should receive additional allowances in recognition of the sacrifices they make daily.

The comments come at a time when labour unions and civil society groups continue to raise concerns about inflation, food prices, transport costs, and the declining purchasing power of workers across Nigeria.

Economic analysts note that conversations around wage increases have intensified following recent economic reforms and subsidy removals that significantly increased the cost of living for millions of Nigerians.

Sowore Unveils Technology-Driven Security Vision

Beyond economic issues, Sowore also drew attention after making an unconventional statement about Nigeria’s security architecture during a live television interview.

The AAC presidential candidate declared that if elected president, his “minister of defence will be a drone,” stressing his belief in the importance of technology and artificial intelligence in combating insecurity.

According to him, Nigeria’s security crisis requires modern solutions built around surveillance technology, drone intelligence, and real-time tracking systems capable of identifying and neutralising criminal threats more effectively.

“If I become Nigeria’s president tomorrow, my minister of defence will be a drone,” he said during the interview.

Sowore explained that his vision includes a command-and-control security system powered by drones and artificial intelligence to track terrorists and criminal groups across the country.

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Criticism of Current Security Leadership

The activist also criticised aspects of Nigeria’s current security structure, arguing that military leadership should focus more on active operational strategy rather than political or administrative distractions.

He said Nigeria needs “honest leaders and supervisors and officers” capable of properly addressing security challenges facing different parts of the country.

Sowore additionally called for a police force that prioritises internal security operations instead of being used for political or non-essential assignments.

According to him, the police should focus on protecting citizens and addressing crime rather than suppressing dissent or policing social media criticism.

Technology Alone Cannot Solve Insecurity, Sowore Says

Despite advocating advanced technology in security operations, Sowore acknowledged that military hardware alone cannot permanently solve Nigeria’s insecurity crisis.

He stressed that long-term peace requires investment in education, job creation, and social welfare programmes capable of reducing poverty and discouraging young people from turning to crime or militancy.

“Ultimately, you must create a society where people can find jobs and go to school, and not be willing to take up arms,” he said.

Political observers say Sowore’s remarks reflect growing discussions around the role of technology, artificial intelligence, and economic reform in addressing Nigeria’s deepening social and security challenges.

His latest comments have since generated mixed reactions online, with supporters praising his bold ideas while critics question the practicality of some of the proposals.

As Nigeria gradually moves toward the 2027 election cycle, debates over wages, insecurity, economic reforms, and governance are expected to remain central issues shaping the political conversation.

FAQ: Omoyele Sowore Minimum Wage and Security Comments

Who is Omoyele Sowore?

is a Nigerian human rights activist, publisher, and politician. He is the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).

What did Sowore say about minimum wage?

Sowore said a ₦500,000 minimum wage is not too much for Nigerian workers considering the current economic realities and rising cost of living.

Why is Sowore advocating a ₦500,000 minimum wage?

According to Sowore, workers in Nigeria deserve salaries that can guarantee decent living standards, especially amid inflation and economic hardship.

Which workers did Sowore mention?

He specifically mentioned police officers, soldiers, teachers, doctors, nurses, and other public servants.

Did Sowore suggest additional allowances?

Yes. Sowore said workers in critical and high-risk sectors should receive extra allowances because of the sacrifices attached to their jobs.

What did Sowore mean by ‘my defence minister will be a drone’?

Sowore used the statement to emphasise his belief in technology-driven security solutions, including drones and artificial intelligence for surveillance and anti-terror operations.

Did Sowore literally mean appointing a drone?

No. The statement was symbolic and intended to highlight the importance of modern technology in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.

What security reforms did Sowore propose?

He proposed a command-and-control security system using drones, artificial intelligence, and real-time monitoring technology to track and combat terrorists and criminal groups.

What did Sowore say about Nigeria’s police force?

Sowore argued that the police should focus on internal security and crime prevention instead of political duties or policing social media activities.

Can drones help fight insecurity in Nigeria?

Security experts globally acknowledge that drones can improve surveillance, intelligence gathering, and military operations, especially in difficult terrains.

What is the African Action Congress (AAC)?

is a Nigerian political party known for its activist-driven political ideology and reform-focused agenda.

Has Sowore spoken about drones before?

Yes. Sowore reportedly made similar comments earlier in 2026 during another television interview discussing Nigeria’s security situation.

Why are Sowore’s comments trending online?

His proposals on wages and drone-based security sparked widespread reactions because they combine economic concerns with unconventional technological solutions.

What is Nigeria’s current minimum wage debate about?

The debate centres on rising inflation, high transportation costs, food prices, and whether existing worker salaries are enough to support basic living expenses.

What role does artificial intelligence play in modern security systems?

Artificial intelligence can help analyse surveillance data, improve threat detection, support military intelligence operations, and enhance real-time security monitoring.