Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North, has put forth a proposition for a ₦100,000 minimum wage for workers in Nigeria.
He firmly believes that anything less would be a slight to the workforce.
Nwoko insists that given Nigeria’s current economic climate, it’s nearly impossible for workers to maintain a standard living with a wage less than ₦100,000. He urges the government to take a realistic approach when setting the minimum wage, keeping in mind the country’s economic conditions.
At an awards ceremony in Abuja, Nwoko expressed his concerns about the myriad of issues plaguing Nigeria, ranging from the economy to security, and of course, the minimum wage. He stated, “Everyone deserves a pay raise. Even a wage of ₦100,000, in my opinion, is just about right. But let’s consider what ₦100,000 can actually afford. How many bags of rice can it buy? How many times can it fill a fuel tank? We need to be pragmatic about our economy.”
He further emphasized that the government’s role is to foster a conducive environment for businesses to thrive and create jobs where possible. However, he criticized the current minimum wage, calling it ‘abysmal’ and insufficient for meeting basic life needs.
Nwoko strongly believes that a minimum wage of ₦100,000 is reasonable. He considers anything less as disrespectful to civil servants.
In addition, the senator voiced his support for the proposed ban on open grazing. He believes it’s a step in the right direction, benefiting everyone, including farmers and herders.
He explained, “The ban is in the best interest of all Nigerians, particularly cattle owners, herders, and farmers. We hear about farmer-herder clashes daily. Either farmers are killed by armed herdsmen, or herders suffer casualties. The ban will prevent such losses. Everyone has the right to live and move freely as law-abiding citizens. Moreover, cattle owners and herders stand to gain significantly. I once asked an armed herder why he carried an AK 47. He said it was to protect himself and his cows from thieves and cattle rustlers. You can see that the ban not only protects farmers but also prevents attacks on herders. Besides, constant movement from one state to another leaves our cows looking malnourished. If a cow feeds in one place, it will be well-fed and healthy. Look at the cows from Morocco and other countries that practice ranching; their cows look well-fed, healthier, and bigger. Let’s put sentiment aside and move this country forward. There’s more to gain than lose with a complete ban on open grazing,” Nwoko concluded.
