ActionAid Nigeria, AAN, has asked members of the National Assembly to stop collecting allowances and instead use them to address the crushing hardship Nigerians are going through. In a chat with newsmen, the Country Director, AAN Andrew Mamedu, said that with significant cut in salary by Members of the House of Representatives by 50 per cent and amounting to N648 million in over six months, the issues pounding Nigerians are way beyond the period of their intervention since it is not sustainable. “The decision by the House of Representatives to cut their salaries by 50 per cent for six months to address the high cost of food and ensure food sufficiency is commendable. Their action signifies a recognition of the severe hardship faced by many Nigerians and reflects a willingness among lawmakers to make personal sacrifices for the greater good of the nation. However, we must critically assess the potential impact of this measure. The N648 million that will be contributed over six months is a substantial amount, but the scope of Nigeria’s current economic challenges requires sustained and multifaceted interventions.
“While this gesture is valuable, it must be part of a broader strategy that includes comprehensive economic reforms, investment in sustainable agricultural practices, and robust social protection programmes. Nigerians cannot also ignore the significant allowances that lawmakers continue to receive. Senator Shehu Sani noted that beyond their salaries, legislators receive substantial allowances, amounting to N13.5 million monthly. In this period of hardship, it is unconscionable for senators to continue collecting these allowances without considering a cut. The focus should not just be on salaries but on the entire compensation package. These allowances should either be drastically cut or completely halted until the country’s situation improves and six months is just too short a period for the cut. Moreover, the salary cuts should not be limited to the House of Representatives but must extend across all tiers of government, including the Senate, state houses of assembly, and the entire executive branch.”
Meanwhile, he also pointed out added that, “Now is not the time for excessive spending, such as purchasing private jets. The entire government must show solidarity by cutting costs and focusing on governance and service delivery.” He expressed concern on the way the impact of salary cut would have on ameliorating plight of Nigerians in terms of utilisation of the funds. “The impact of the salary cut on the current situation of Nigerians, especially concerning food insecurity and economic hardship, will largely depend on how effectively the funds are utilised. While immediate relief efforts are essential, long-term strategies that address the root causes of these challenges are also necessary. Sustainable development cannot be achieved overnight; it requires continuous effort and the commitment of the government and all stakeholders, including civil society organisations, the private sector, and international partners.” On the August 1 nationwide protest, he (Mamedu) said Nigerians have every constitutional right to protest.
“Nigerians are obviously angry, and if they are not happy with the quality of governance, they have the constitutional right to protest.
It is essential to acknowledge the constitutional right of citizens to peacefully assemble and express their grievances. “The federal and state governments have not necessarily put themselves forward to encourage citizens’ dialogue and constructive engagement with the government, so it is important to ensure that the voices of those suffering are heard and addressed promptly. If protest is what the citizens have to do to make the government listen, ActionAid Nigeria stands in solidarity with the masses. The government must demonstrate its commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians through concrete actions and policies that promote equity, justice, and economic stability”, he said.
However, he commended Tinubu’s approval of the N70,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers.”ActionAid Nigeria also applauds President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a new minimum wage of N70,000 for Nigerian workers; it is a positive step toward improving the living conditions of the workforce. The commitment to reviewing the national minimum wage law every three years is a necessary and progressive measure. However, it is important to note that while this increase is significant, it must be coupled with measures to control inflation and ensure that the wage increment translates to real improvements in the standard of living for Nigerians.
“If inflation continues unchecked, the new minimum wage will be rendered worthless. Thus, ensuring a stable and sustainable economy is imperative. ActionAid Nigeria therefore calls on the government to ensure transparency in the allocation and use of these funds and to engage with all stakeholders in creating long-term solutions for Nigeria’s economic challenges. Transparent and accountable management of these resources is crucial to ensure they reach those most in need and contribute to tangible improvements in food security. The Federal and State government must address issues such as insecurity faced by farmers, inflation, infrastructure deficiencies, and support for small and medium-scale enterprises. We also demand that all levels of government, including local governments that are now autonomous, be ready to pay the minimum wage and increase their productivity”, he added.