The House of Representatives calls on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to announce a living wage for Nigerian workers.
The resolution, prompted by a motion from Mr. Isa Ali, highlights the need for a review of the National Minimum Wage Act of 2019, stressing changed circumstances since its enactment.
Contributions from members underscore the urgency for a realistic living wage and redirecting negotiations with labour unions.
He said, “The National Assembly repealed and enacted the National Minimum Wage Act 2019 to fix the minimum wage at N30,000 even when the executive arm had suggested N27,000 at the time.
“In line with Section 3(4) of the Act, the extant minimum wage which commenced on April 18, 2019, has expired after five years on April 18, 2024, thereby calling for a further review of the existing Act.
He further argued that the payment of N35,000 wage award to public servants as a way of cushioning the effect of the economic hardship in the country has not addressed the challenges faced by Nigerian workers.
Contributing to the debate, House Minority Leader, Kinglsey Chinda urged the parliament to pass a New Wage Act speedingly in the manner the National Anthem Bill was passed a fortnight ago.
He said, “Section 14 of the constitution provides for the security and welfare of the people. Can we say we have carried out that function of governance? Can we say we have provided security and welfare for Nigerians? The answer is NO!
“In Nigeria, it appears life now equates to one minute of silence. Workers are crying about their salaries as it is no longer possible to live on N50,000 a month. Yet, we expect them to earn this serve us. We must provide living wages for the workers. We can’t shy away from living wages while talking about minimum wage.
“I want to say that we should pass a New Wage Act with the speed we passed the National Anthem Act,” adding that even if the President fails to sign it, the parliament can veto the Act.
“Let us recall the Minimum Wage Act and pass it and if the president refuses to sign, then we override him,” he added.