Senator Anthony Ani (Ebonyi South) on Friday urged Organised Labour and the Federal Government to consider and adopt ₦100,000.00 as a “reasonable, realistic, and sustainable living wage for Nigerian workers.” Ani, a former university professor, made this statement while responding to questions from journalists in Abuja.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are demanding a minimum wage of ₦494,000 for workers, while the Federal Government has proposed ₦60,000 as a sustainable amount.
In response to the ongoing debate, Organised Labour initiated an indefinite nationwide strike on Monday, June 3, 2024. However, the NLC and TUC suspended the strike for one week on Tuesday to allow for further negotiations after indications that the Federal Government might increase its offer from ₦60,000.
The Labour unions have also called for a reversal of the recent hike in electricity tariffs.
Senator Ani stated, “The ₦494,000.00 that Labour is asking the Government to pay as minimum wage is not realistic. Economists and statisticians should calculate and propose a reasonable salary—a living wage that can support workers and their families.”
He continued, “I recommend a ₦100,000.00 minimum wage per month for workers. Nigeria can afford this, especially in rural areas where living costs are lower.”
Ani emphasized that only a few workers in urban areas are on the lowest salary scales, often in roles such as cleaners. He argued that many such workers might not bear significant living expenses if they are provided housing or other support by their employers.
Additionally, Ani, who taught Agricultural Science before entering politics, advised Nigerian workers to acquire skills and engage in subsistence farming to supplement their income. “People need to be creative and have a fallback plan. Weekend farming or other artisanal activities can provide additional income and sustainability for families,” he said.
