The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has recommended ₦350,000 as the new minimum wage for Nigerian workers.
This demand was made on Wednesday during the 5th National Delegate Conference held at the University of Abuja, as stated in a welcome address by NAAT’s national president, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma.
Comrade Nwokoma emphasized the difference between a minimum wage and a living wage, asserting that Nigerian workers deserve a living wage. He highlighted the adverse impact of the removal of fuel subsidy and the resulting inflation on the livelihood and survival of workers in the country.
“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,” he said.
Comparing Nigeria to other African countries, he noted that countries like Seychelles and South Africa have significantly higher monthly wages, further underscoring the need for an increased wage for Nigerian workers.
“On this note, I propose a minimum of Three Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N350,000) for the Nigerian worker as a monthly wage,” Nwokoma declared.
Nwokoma also addressed other challenges faced by the union, including delays in the release of circulars for CONTISS 14 and 15, which he stated had hampered the career progression of union members.
“To address this, we will intensify advocacy efforts, engaging relevant stakeholders and leveraging all available channels to expedite the release of these crucial circulars in the next dispensation of our leadership. It is a task that must be achieved,” he stressed.
He further called on the federal government to ensure the implementation of the lingering FGN/NAAT 2009 Agreement, pledging to foster stronger alliances with sister unions and employ strategic negotiation tactics to drive progress towards a satisfactory resolution.
Addressing the issue of backlog salary payments, Nwokoma said, “The non-payment of backlog salaries remained a pressing concern, impacting the financial stability of our members and causing disaffection and low morale. To address this challenge, the leadership in the next dispensation will pursue proactive measures, including dialogue with relevant authorities, recourse to necessary action within the ambit of the law, and sustained advocacy to ensure the prompt and fair resolution of outstanding salary arrears, prioritizing the welfare of members.”
