Fair Wages for a Thriving Nation: The Moral and Economic Case for Nigerian Workers

Workers are not merely a resource but the very lifeblood of our nation’s progress. Even when technologies are deployed, they only function after being programmed by human hands, and those behind the innovations are usually generously compensated. Therefore, it is not just a moral imperative but a logical necessity that any person who contributes to our nation’s progress should be remunerated with a wage that not only sustains them but also allows them to provide for their basic needs, secure housing and raise a family. This is a duty we all share, to ensure the well-being and dignity of our fellow workers, the backbone of our nation.

In the Old Testament, God created man to work and be rewarded. For instance, when he created Adam, he also made a garden that was abundant in everything. Adam had everything he needed to sustain himself. There were no threats from lions, snakes, or other animals. God provided him with maximum security. In this context, God did not create any servant to help him, which implies that Adam, too, was expected to contribute his part to maintain the garden’s prosperity.

In the New Testament, the synoptic gospels gave an account of how Jesus Christ sent seventy ministry workers in twos to propagate the kingdom messages in cities. The disciples were sent with specific instructions to preach the word of God, heal the sick, and perform miracles that would give people succor, thereby saving sick patients from their suffering and, perhaps, money that would have been paid to the physicians of that time.

In rendering the healing services and performing miracles, they were told that helpers in houses in any city they entered to serve would be available to supply their needs. Therefore, they were forbidden to take anything with them, no change of clothes, shoes, etc., for the journey.

Interpreting the biblical references, those seventy disciples were expected to work and, in return, earn wages in the form of housing, food, clothing, and shoes. This aligns with the fundamental principle that a laborer is worthy of his wage, as explicitly stated in Luke 10, verse 7. This biblical principle, deeply rooted in fairness and justice, should serve as the cornerstone of our wage policies. Let us respect and honor these teachings in our actions, drawing inspiration from our faith to create a more just and equitable society.

There was also a condition that if they entered any city unwilling to accept them, they should shake the city’s soil off their feet as a reproach and leave. I believe this was a directive to withdraw their services if not treated fairly.

The above could be likened to present-day work preaching diligence on the part of workers. In return, workers should be paid a living wage, which would provide the worker with shelter, food, and other things that would allow a worker to live comfortably, including raising a family. In this line, I appeal to the federal government, this time to offer Nigerian workers a living wage at the minimum.

If implemented, this policy could be the catalyst for a transformative shift in Nigeria’s economy. The increased spending power of workers would not only improve their quality of life but also create a ripple effect, stimulating economic growth, reducing corruption, and restoring the pride of a nation in its public service. This is a vision of a brighter, more prosperous future for all Nigerians, a future where the hard work of every Nigerian is rewarded and the nation thrives.

I am sure Tinubu can do this as a mark of respect for God’s injunction, prove his critics wrong, and leave a lasting imprint in the hearts of the toiling Nigerian masses. In return, the workers must also show the due diligence that is expected of them, as spelled out in the scriptures, which in turn would improve the country’s productivity. Great and peace!!!