Reps Minority Caucus Demands "Living Wage" for Nigerian Workers Amid Economic Hardship

By: Manoah Kikekon 

National Assembly 

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has called for an urgent review of workers’ wages, advocating for a "living wage" instead of a minimum wage to alleviate the economic struggles faced by Nigerian workers.  

In a statement issued by the Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda (PDP-Rivers), the caucus urged the Federal Government to take decisive steps in addressing the rising inflation, unemployment, and worsening living conditions affecting millions of Nigerians.  

Chinda commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and contributions to national development, describing them as the "engine room" of the country’s progress. However, he expressed deep concern over the "galloping inflation, debilitating hunger, and corrosive poverty" crippling workers' productivity.  

"Workers’ Day is another opportunity to reflect on the state of the nation and acknowledge that the Nigerian workforce has collectively given its best despite harsh conditions," Chinda stated.  

The caucus highlighted job losses, declining economic growth, and renewed insecurity as key challenges eroding workers' welfare. They warned that without better wages and incentives, the workforce the backbone of government operations would continue to struggle.  

The Minority Caucus emphasized that Nigerian workers deserve more than just a minimum wage, insisting on a living wage that reflects current economic realities.  

"The Federal Government must engage the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other stakeholders in meaningful dialogue to reposition the economy," Chinda urged.  

He also called on workers to collaborate with the government while demanding better conditions, expressing optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges through unity and strategic policymaking.  

As economic pressures mount, the demand for improved wages is expected to dominate discussions between labour unions and the government. Will the Federal Government heed the Minority Caucus’s call, or will Nigerian workers face another year of hardship?  

For now, the ball is in the government’s court and millions of workers are watching. 

(NAN)