As the economic crisis in Nigeria deepens, I firmly stand in support of the proposed N615,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC.
Labour’s demand is not only reasonable but also a necessary lifeline for millions of Nigerians drowning in poverty.
Since the removal of the petrol subsidy, the country has plunged into an unprecedented economic downturn, with over 193 million citizens struggling to make ends meet.
The purchasing power of the average Nigerian has been decimated, and the cost of living has skyrocketed beyond reach.
Hardship has become the norm, with Nigerians facing unimaginable difficulties.
A friend of mine in the United States recently expressed concern and worry about the surge in requests for assistance from family and friends back home, a stark contrast to the past.
The average Nigerian has been reduced to a struggler, fighting to survive since the removal of the subsidy and the floating of the naira.
Unfortunately, the floating of the naira has not stabilized the exchange rate, leading to further hardship and suffering of Nigerians.
President Tinubu’s first year in office has been marked by harsh economic policies that have yet to yield tangible results, leaving Nigerians hungrier and angrier.
The recent increase in petrol prices and the return of scarcity have added to the misery, eroding the joy and vitality of the once-thriving citizenry.
In this context, Labour’s demand for a N615,000 minimum wage is a beacon of hope.
While it is true that over 90% of the population, including those in the informal sector, may not benefit directly from this increase, it is crucial to acknowledge that it would be a significant and major step to ameliorate the pitiable and horrendous living conditions of Nigerians.
Moreover, state governors should be part of the new minimum wage negotiations, as they play a vital role in implementing this policy.
The current economic situation demands decisive action from the government, both at the Federal and sub national levels.Nigerians cannot continue to suffer in silence. The N615,000 minimum wage demanded by organized Labour is a necessary step towards alleviating the suffering of workers.
I urge the President and state governments to act swiftly to end our misery.
It’s time to put the welfare of Nigerians first as President Tinubu enters the second year of his first term.
“The average Nigerian has been reduced to a struggler, fighting to survive’
