Adams Oshiomhole, former governor of Edo State and a seasoned labour leader, has voiced strong criticism regarding the growing wage disparity and exploitation of workers in Nigeria. Speaking candidly at the Distinguished Personality Lecture organized by the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) in Abuja, Oshiomhole expressed that Nigerian workers have become even poorer over time, despite the Federal Government’s efforts to increase the minimum wage.
The lecture, held as part of the Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC) 17, was aimed at creating awareness about the impact of wages on security, productivity, and the overall economic stability of African countries. During his address, Oshiomhole warned that the current state of inadequate compensation for workers is not just a matter of livelihood but a potential threat to national security and economic growth.
He noted that when workers are poorly compensated, their vulnerability to social and economic manipulation increases, making them susceptible to extremist ideologies. He argued that if these challenges are left unaddressed, the rising dissatisfaction among the workforce could lead to unrest, jeopardizing national stability.
Oshiomhole further elaborated that Nigeria’s failure to provide fair wages has a cascading effect, impacting purchasing power, limiting consumer demand, and consequently slowing down economic growth. He stressed the need for urgent reforms to rectify wage disparities and ensure that workers receive adequate remuneration for their contributions to the nation's growth.
Recalling his own experiences as a factory worker and union leader, Oshiomhole drew attention to the historical battles fought to secure fair wages and the right to collective bargaining. He explained that these victories were hard-won and have continued to play a critical role in protecting workers’ rights, enabling them to advocate for improved working conditions.
In his speech, Oshiomhole described how poor wages perpetuate a cycle of economic hardship, with the consequences extending far beyond individual workers. He highlighted that many Nigerian embassies abroad report poor wages that fail to meet the rising cost of living, leaving workers in worse financial situations over time. Oshiomhole emphasized that this lack of fair compensation reflects poorly on Nigeria's international image.
Comparing Nigeria’s wage structures to those of other African nations, Oshiomhole noted that minimum wages in countries like Seychelles and South Africa are significantly higher. He underscored the reality that Nigerian workers, including unskilled laborers, are migrating to countries such as the United States and Canada, drawn by the allure of higher wages and an enhanced quality of life.
Oshiomhole expressed that many Nigerian workers face not only inadequate wages but also fluctuating salaries and a lack of job security, as some employers frequently hire and fire employees without stability. He highlighted that although private sector jobs typically offer better pay, they lack the stability often associated with public sector roles. However, he pointed out that public sector jobs, though relatively stable, are plagued by inefficiencies and overemployment, creating an unsustainable compensation structure.
According to Oshiomhole, the minimum wage is supposed to be a protective measure for vulnerable workers but often fails to achieve this purpose in Nigeria. He argued that inflation has eroded the purchasing power of workers, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain a decent standard of living. Historical comparisons reveal that many workers are financially worse off today, despite nominal increases in wages over the years.
Oshiomhole’s discussion also highlighted how the government’s economic policies and inadequate funding for refurbishments in public sectors contribute to workers’ struggles. He argued that economic strategies need revision to foster job creation, enhance infrastructure, and reduce inefficiencies within government agencies to tackle poverty effectively.
In concluding his address, Oshiomhole stressed that it is imperative to ensure that workers receive fair pay, as this not only motivates them but also drives demand in a market economy. By underpaying workers, Nigeria risks falling into a cycle of limited economic growth, where poor wages undermine purchasing power and, consequently, the country's economic potential. He emphasized that addressing these issues is crucial for establishing a prosperous Nigeria where workers can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s advancement.