The President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, emphasized the need for a substantial increase in the minimum wage for workers in Nigeria. Ajaero asserted that the least paid worker in the country should receive a minimum of $200 monthly, citing the escalating cost of living and economic challenges faced by the populace.
The call for a higher minimum wage comes after the organised labour suspended its planned indefinite strike following negotiations with the federal government. Ajaero highlighted the various aspects of a worker’s expenses, including transportation, accommodation, and education, pointing out that even with a $200 monthly wage, it would be a challenge to sustain a family’s basic needs given the current economic climate.
Ajaero stressed the importance of addressing core issues such as transportation costs, education, and healthcare facilities to alleviate the financial burden on workers. The NLC president emphasized that a comprehensive approach is necessary to ensure that the proposed minimum wage can adequately cover the essential expenses of Nigerian families.