Varsity workers propose N350,000 minimum wage

The National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, on Wednesday, April 24, proposed N350,000 as the new living wage.

This comes as the Tripartite Committee of the National Minimum Wage prepares to release the harmonised recommendation for the new minimum wage expected to take effect from May.

The workers, who vowed not to go above or below the proposed amount, based its recommendation on the present economic situation in the country occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidy, high inflationary rate and the attendant hardship.

They spoke through their president, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma, during the opening session of the union’s 5th National Delegates Conference that was held at the University of Abuja. 

“Nigeria must transcend the concept of a mere minimum wage to embrace the notion of a living wage, commensurate with the rising cost of living,” the NAAT president said.

“Comparatively, other African countries have made strides in this regard, recognising the fundamental right of workers to earn wages that afford them dignity and a standard of living. 

“On this note, I propose a minimum of N350,000 for the Nigerian worker as a monthly wage.”

Addressing the issue of backlog of salaries owed NAAT members, the union leader said it “remains a pressing concern, impacting the financial stability of our members and causing disaffection and low morale.”