- Kingsley Chinda asserts that ₦70,000 minimum wage is insufficient for Nigerian families, advocating instead for a living wage
- He argues that a living wage could reduce corruption and motivate citizens to work diligently for the nation
Leader of the opposition in the House of Representatives, Rep Kingsley Chinda, has asserted that a minimum wage of ₦70,000 is insufficient for Nigerian families. He advocates for a living wage instead.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Friday night, Chinda emphasized that the focus should be on a living wage for Nigerian workers. He stated, “As a caucus, we don’t believe in a minimum wage. We have been calling for a living wage for Nigerians and Nigerian workers.”
Chinda argued that paying a living wage could reduce corruption and motivate citizens to work diligently for the nation. “Pay Nigerians a living wage, corruption will be reduced. Pay Nigerians a living wage; you will ignite the spirit to work for the nation,” he said.
He criticized the governor’s stance on limiting wages to ₦70,000 per month, stating it would not solve the country’s problems. He called for realistic and practical discussions between the Executive arm and Labour.
Chinda highlighted the financial struggles of Nigerian families, noting that ₦70,000 cannot cover the expenses of a family with one or two wives and four children. “How much is a bag of rice?” he asked, emphasizing the inadequacy of the proposed wage.
He urged a shift from a minimum to a living wage, with solid support from the entire House, including the Speaker. Chinda recalled the Speaker’s remark at the Villa, advocating for a living wage for Nigerians.
In his remarks, Chinda also advised Labour to follow the rules while agitating for better wages. “Two wrongs cannot make a right,” he concluded, urging a balanced approach to pursuing fair compensation for workers.