Amidst the soaring inflation rates and economic hardships exacerbated by recent reforms, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) remains resolute in its call for a substantial increase in the minimum wage. Despite the doubtfulness over the feasibility of the proposed N615,000 monthly salary, the NLC asserts that with proper fiscal management, many states can afford it.
Mr. Joe Ajaero, the NLC President, highlighted the importance of prioritizing spending and optimizing resources. He pointed out that some states earlier on deemed financially incapable of meeting wage demands still failed to do so, highlighting the issue of mismanagement rather than inadequate funds.
Mr. Ajaero proposed strategic measures such as investing in mechanized agriculture to enhance self-sufficiency in food production, which could alleviate the economic strain and reduce dependency on high salaries.
While the Federal Government recently announced pay increments for certain workers ahead of Labour Day, Mr. Ajaero criticized the move as “mischievous,” asserting that it did not constitute a genuine wage hike.
Chinedum Anayo 
saharandaily