Labour Party presidential candidate, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, has emphasized that Nigerian workers need more than just higher salaries. In an interview, Okereke canvassed for living wages, social protection, pension security, affordable housing, healthcare, productivity, public-service reform, employment, and the future of work. He noted that a living wage is not just a figure, but a basket that takes into account the socio-economic circumstances of the worker and the dignity of labour.
Okereke explained that a living wage would replace the minimum wage if he is elected president. He believes that the current minimum wage system is inadequate and does not reflect the prevailing economic conditions. According to him, a living wage should be accompanied by social benefits that protect workers from shocks, including functional healthcare support, housing, food, education, and social protection.
The LP presidential candidate highlighted the importance of social protection in ensuring that workers receive a living wage. He noted that take-home pay must reflect prevailing conditions, and there should be consequential adjustments when those conditions change. Okereke also emphasized the need for equal opportunity, a functional social welfare system, and a fair reward system.
Okereke identified the biggest problem with the way Nigerian workers are currently rewarded as conflicting laws and a narrow conceptualization of federal character. He noted that there are situations where the boards of some agencies determine their own salaries and benefits, while workers in the civil and public service operate under minimum-wage arrangements, collective bargaining, and consequential adjustments.
The LP presidential candidate also spoke about the need for a major reset of the public service. He noted that recruitment should not simply be about giving somebody a job so that the person can survive, but about attracting people who are motivated by the value they can contribute. Okereke emphasized that there should be no dichotomy between politicians and the civil service, and that social justice and equal opportunity should be prioritized.
Okereke discussed the issue of workers' pensions, gratuity, and other post-employment benefits. He noted that pension should be part of the social contract between the worker and the state or employer, and that promotion, training, gratuity, emoluments, and pension must be properly structured and delivered. Okereke emphasized that workers should be able to trust the system and receive their benefits when they retire.
Finally, Okereke outlined his vision for an effective social protection system. He noted that the idea behind the current social safety net system is fantastic, but the problem is implementation. Okereke emphasized that social protection should be integrated across the Federal, State, and Local Government levels, and that existing structures such as the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, UBEC, and rural electrification agencies should be used properly.
Key points
- Dr. Chibuzo Okereke emphasizes the need for a living wage, social protection, and pension security for Nigerian workers.
