PERESSA Calls for Living Wage Amid Economic Struggles

Comrade Rufu Olusesan, the President of the Public Electricity Regulatory Commission Senior Staff Association (PERESSA), articulated the necessity for Nigerian workers to receive a living wage during a retirement ceremony for Mr. Itemoagbo Eshomounu, a respected labor leader in Lagos State.

Olusesan argued that the current minimum wage of N70,000 is insufficient due to the country's deteriorating economic conditions, which include soaring inflation, increased food prices, and rising transportation and healthcare costs. He urged labor unions, including the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), to negotiate with the government based on credible economic data rather than political considerations.

Olusesan highlighted that despite Nigeria's abundant natural resources, poor economic management has led to a situation where a significant portion of the country's wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, exacerbating the struggles of the average worker. He paid tribute to Eshomounu for his dedication and hard work in the labor sector.