Living Wages-Workers in Nigeria are in deep shock-Comrade Emelieze

Workers in both the public and private sectors of all sectors of the economy in Nigeria are yet to attain the acceptable state of mind to guarantee unimpeded productivity. Living wages and human-friendly conditions of service boost efficiency, effectiveness, and diligence in economies that value the worth of their workforce. However, lamentations, complaints, grumblings, and arguments have for so long characterized the approach of workers to the scheme of things. Sadly, the multiple effects of the obvious disregard for the workforce have manifested in all sectors of the economy. Comrade Andrew Emelieze is the convener of the All Workers Convergence and Federal Workers Forum. Comrade Emelieze laments that the situation is almost hopeless, just as he calls on those in charge to salvage the country's helpless workers. ''The new national minimum wage is nothing to write home about. Workers in Nigeria are in a state of confusion over the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage. The amount that was added to our salaries is inconsequential, demeaning, and equally exploitative. Federal workers are still in deep shock as the January salaries were reduced, the annual increment is missing, the so-called N40,000 consequential adjustment minimum wage was withheld, and there is no readily available explanation from the federal government. Moreover, 5 months of wage award arrears are yet to be paid, and promotion arrears are still being expected in addition to so many other arrears. Surprisingly, just as December salaries were delayed, some ministries, departments, and agencies are yet to receive January salaries.'' Comrade Emelieze revealed. Indeed, those who worship God and mammon simultaneously are already blaming themselves and their sponsors.