As Nigerians mark Workers’ Day, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed strong solidarity with workers across the country and issued a passionate call for urgent reforms to address the deepening economic hardship faced by the Nigerian workforce.
In a statement signed by Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, CHRICED’s Executive Director, the organization praised the resilience and determination of workers who, despite harsh economic realities, continue to drive the wheels of national development.
Grassroots Parrot reports that CHRICED, however, condemned what it described as the Federal Government’s failure to respond adequately to the economic pressures suffocating workers.
“Inflation has surged from 21% to 24.23% under the current administration, and yet, the national minimum wage remains a paltry N70, 000. This is unjustifiable, especially given the increase in government revenues through crude oil sales, taxation, and savings from fuel subsidy removal. There is no excuse for the continued neglect of workers at both federal and state levels.” The statement read.
Zikirullahi expressed alarm at reports of unpaid wage awards, particularly referencing the protest by workers in Oyo State, where the Federal Government reportedly owes wage awards for over five months.
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Despite the passage of a new minimum wage law on July 29, 2024, the Executive Director noted that more than 20 states have failed to adjust their salary structures in line with the law.
“This delay is not just a failure of governance—it is a clear message of disregard for the well-being and dignity of Nigerian workers,” CHRICED stated.
He was particularly critical of government spending priorities, pointing out that while billions of naira are earmarked for political office holders across all branches of government, civil servants often receive no bonuses or support during major holidays or crises.
“Under the so-called ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, Nigerian workers are yet to see any meaningful signs of hope,” said Dr. Zikirullahi.
He called for a comprehensive overhaul of government policy to ensure that workers are paid not just a minimum wage, but a living wage—one that reflects the real cost of living and is adjusted regularly to keep pace with inflation and macroeconomic shifts.
Beyond wages, the organization outlined key policy demands in housing, healthcare, and agriculture, aimed at boosting workers’ welfare and easing the pressures of daily survival:
CHRICED criticized the ineffectiveness of the National Housing Fund (NHF) and exclusionary practices by primary mortgage banks. Despite statutory deductions, most workers are unable to access affordable housing. The group called for the immediate rollout of low-cost housing schemes suited to workers’ incomes.
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CHRICED also urged the restructuring of both national and state health insurance schemes, citing ongoing complaints about poor access to essential medical care. “No worker should be denied critical care due to inadequate health packages,” the group emphasized.
To tackle food insecurity, CHRICED recommended the establishment of cooperative agricultural schemes, which would allow workers to contribute small amounts and receive essential food supplies annually.
“Workers are not beggars—they are builders of the nation. To treat their welfare with such indifference is to threaten the very foundation of national stability and productivity,” Dr. Zikirullahi added.
He concluded by urging all levels of government to act with urgency, empathy, and accountability, stressing that the welfare of workers must move from rhetoric to reality.