Moving Beyond Celebration: Workers’ Day and the Imperative for a Living Wage in Nigeria -By Kenechukwu Aguolu

Question 1: What are the anticipations of Nigerian workers as Workers’ Day, approaches; specifically regarding the likelihood of an increment in the minimum wage?

Answer: With Workers’ Day, drawing near, Nigerian workers eagerly await any news regarding a potential rise in the minimum wage. However, recent statements attributed to the President of the Trade Union Congress hint that such an announcement might not occur on that day. This delay disappoints many workers grappling with economic challenges. The government should acknowledge this disappointment and provide a transparent timeline for any pronouncement and subsequent implementation of adjustments to the minimum wage.

Question 2: To what degree do you consider the current minimum wage in Nigeria to be insufficient?
Answer: The existing minimum wage of thirty thousand naira is glaringly inadequate. To contextualize, individuals living below 1.9 dollars per day, as per World Bank standards, are deemed to be in poverty. With a minimum wage equivalent to roughly one thousand naira per day, individuals fall significantly below this poverty threshold. Sustaining oneself, let alone supporting a family, with such meager income is incredibly challenging. Essentially, the current minimum wage sentences individuals to a life of absolute poverty, making it nearly impossible to fulfill basic needs and aspirations.

Question 3: How do you assess the fairness of employers towards Nigerian workers?

Answer: Evaluating the fairness of employers towards Nigerian workers presents a nuanced scenario. In the private sector, compliance with minimum wage regulations is common, meeting legal requirements. However, some employers exploit the low minimum wage by offering salaries just above this threshold, taking advantage of high unemployment rates. This often results in highly qualified individuals receiving inadequate compensation for their skills and contributions. As for the government’s role, there is room for improvement. Recognizing workers as the backbone of society, establishing a reasonable national minimum wage is crucial. When workers are not adequately compensated, it not only affects their individual welfare but also has widespread societal implications. Thus, there’s a clear expectation for the government to prioritize fair wages and working conditions for Nigerian workers, acknowledging their indispensable role in maintaining the nation’s prosperity.

Question 4: How would you describe the historical treatment of workers by State Governments, particularly in past times?

Answer: Prior to the current administration, instances occurred where state governments consistently failed to pay worker salaries on time, with some only providing partial payments. Such neglect towards worker welfare is disheartening, with reports indicating tragic consequences such as workers resorting to suicide out of frustration and children dropping out of school due to financial strain. These outcomes underscore the severity of the situation. If research were conducted, there might be a correlation between this neglect towards worker welfare and the increase in insecurity levels. When individuals of all ages face dire financial circumstances due to unpaid wages, some may resort to criminal activities as a means of survival. While this doesn’t justify criminal behavior, it’s crucial to acknowledge the pressures driving individuals towards illegal actions. Financial pressure stands out in the fraud triangle, contributing significantly to fraudulent behavior. Addressing issues related to worker salaries is urgent to alleviate financial burdens on individuals and mitigate associated societal impacts, such as heightened insecurity. Timely payment of wages is essential for the well-being of workers and fostering stability and prosperity across society.

Question 5: What would be your proposed national minimum wage, and what justification would you provide?

Answer: While advocating for a minimum wage of one hundred thousand naira might appear ideal, determining the appropriate minimum wage is complex. It involves considering factors such as the cost of living, inflation rates, and the financial capacity of employers, including governments at all levels. While pushing for a substantial increase may seem appealing, acknowledging economic realities and feasibility is crucial. State governments, often citing limited funds, must prioritize workers’ welfare while maintaining fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Boosting internally generated revenue through initiatives like enhancing tax collection, investing in infrastructure, and promoting entrepreneurship could address this challenge. Strengthening revenue streams enables state governments to handle the costs associated with higher wages while investing in critical services and development projects. Achieving a balance between fair wages for workers and fiscal prudence necessitates collaboration among government, businesses, and labour unions to establish an equitable and sustainable minimum wage for all stakeholders involved.

Question 6: What final thoughts would you like to share?

Answer: I have faith in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to provide workers with not just a new minimum wage, but a wage that will enable them to live with dignity even though if it may take longer than expected. President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated a strong dedication to good governance, and I am confident that he will prioritize the welfare of workers as part of his vision for a prosperous Nigeria. Moreover, establishing a robust mechanism for enforcing the national minimum wage is paramount.