The House of Representatives has decided to establish a temporary committee aimed at ensuring that all workers in Nigeria receive a payment of living wage.
This decision came after 35 members sponsored a motion during Wednesday’s session in Abuja, which was subsequently adopted.
Aliyu Madaki (NNPP-Kano State), who presented the motion, disclosed the challenges faced by the average Nigerian due to the country’s escalating inflation rate, making it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities like food, water, shelter, education, healthcare, transportation, and clothing.
He pointed out that the rising inflation rate has also led to a surge in the cost of living, particularly in essential areas such as food, housing, education, and transportation.
Making reference to Nigeria’s commitment to the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Madaki cited Article 23, which underscored the right of every worker to receive fair and adequate compensation to ensure a dignified standard of living for themselves and their families.
Additionally, he noted that achieving eight out of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 hinges on the implementation of a living wage.
Citing a World Bank report, the lawmaker pointed out that the country’s high inflation rate has resulted in reduced purchasing power, exacerbating poverty levels nationwide.
Madaki also recalled comments made by Speaker Rep. Tajudeen Abbas at a previous event, where he stressed the importance of implementing a living wage as a means to address prevailing issues of insecurity and corruption in the country.
