Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
In a heated response to the Federal Government’s proposal of a N48,000 minimum wage, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have categorically rejected the offer, calling it grossly inadequate to meet the basic needs of workers.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made a compelling case for a substantial increase, emphasizing the need for a “living wage” that ensures the well-being and dignity of Nigerian workers. Ajaero highlighted the necessity of a N615,000 monthly wage, breaking down the costs that contribute to this figure.
“Living wage is such that it will, at least, keep you alive. It is not a wage that will make you poorer and poorer. It is not a wage that will make you borrow to go to work. It is not a wage that will lead you to be in the hospital every day because of malnutrition,” Ajaero stated.
He detailed the calculation behind the N615,000 demand, which includes N40,000 for housing, N20,000 for electricity, and N10,000 for utilities. The cost of kerosene and gas was estimated at N25,000 to N35,000.
Food expenses for a family of six were estimated at N270,000 per month, while health care was pegged at N50,000, excluding major medical procedures. Clothing and education were estimated at N20,000 and N50,000 respectively. Sanitation costs amounted to N10,000.
A significant portion of the proposed wage is allocated to transportation, calculated at N110,000, due to workers living on the outskirts and the high cost of petrol.
“This comprehensive breakdown shows that a living wage of N615,000 is necessary. I want anyone to subject this to further investigation and find out whether there will be any savings when you pay somebody at this rate,” Ajaero asserted.