Reps Advocate for Living Wage Over Minimum Wage for Nigerian Workers

 

Nigeria's House of Representative

The House of Representatives has called for a shift from the Federal Government's proposed minimum wage to a more realistic living wage for Nigerian workers, emphasizing the inadequacy of the current minimum wage amid rising economic challenges.

 

During yesterday’s plenary, Ali Jesi (APC, Gombe) presented a motion highlighting the urgent need to address the economic hardships faced by workers through the implementation of a living wage. Jesi praised labour unions for their dedication to negotiating a new minimum wage but urged them to temporarily suspend their strike.

 

Jesi noted that according to Section 3(4) of the Minimum Wage Act, the existing minimum wage, which took effect on April 18, 2019, expired on April 18, 2024. He called for a review of the current Act to reflect the present economic realities.

 

Aliu Madaki (NNPP, Kano) stressed that Nigerian workers need a living wage rather than just a minimum wage, urging the Federal Government to recognize the financial strain on workers and adjust wages accordingly. Kingsley Chinda, the minority leader of the House, echoed this sentiment, questioning whether leaders had fulfilled their duty to ensure the security and welfare of the people. He highlighted the insufficiency of the proposed minimum wage, citing the high cost of living.

 

Chinda also cautioned labour unions against extreme actions, such as shutting down the national grid, which negatively impacts the very people they aim to support. He pointed out that such actions can have dire consequences, particularly for those reliant on essential services like hospitals and airports.

 

Stanley Adedeji (APC, Oyo) argued for the criminalization of shutting down the national grid during strikes, asserting that such actions can endanger lives. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House, who presided over the plenary, reiterated that workers in essential services should not participate in strikes, as it is against the law and detrimental to public welfare.

 

The House adopted the motion, urging the government to focus on establishing a living wage rather than a new minimum wage. Additionally, they called for a review of electricity tariffs to alleviate the financial burden on Nigerians. The matter was referred to the House Committee on Labour and Employment, with a directive to report back within a week.