By: Bayero Ade
Senator Ali Ndume has criticized the current N70,000 minimum wage, stating that it is grossly insufficient to meet the basic needs of Nigerians, especially in the face of rising food prices. Speaking in Borno South, Ndume pointed out the alarming gap between the country’s minimum wage and the soaring costs of essential goods, such as rice and beans.
“The N70,000 minimum wage cannot even afford a 50kg bag of rice, which now costs over N100,000, nor a 100kg bag of beans, which is priced at N200,000,” Ndume said. “This is a dire situation, and the government must do more to alleviate the hardships that Nigerians are facing.”
According to Politics Nigeria, Ndume also highlighted the staggering increase in fuel prices, which have surged from around N200 per litre to N970 to N1,200 in some areas. This has further compounded the daily struggles of Nigerians, especially as transportation costs soar.
While acknowledging the government’s economic reforms, Ndume stressed the need for these policies to be better aligned with the realities of everyday Nigerians. He called for urgent and focused actions to address the cost of living crisis, urging the government to prioritize agriculture as a long-term solution to food insecurity.
“We need to refocus on agriculture,” Ndume stated. “It is the key to solving the food crisis and reducing our dependence on imports. Encouraging local production will help create jobs and reduce the burden on families.”
The senator also raised concerns over the new tax reforms proposed by President Bola Tinubu, urging traditional leaders in his constituency to reject the policies. He argued that these new tax measures would only increase the financial strain on citizens and detract from efforts to bolster local food production and agricultural investments.
“To truly resolve this crisis, we must invest in local food production and reduce our reliance on imports. Agriculture is the solution, and it will provide sustainable growth for the economy,” Ndume concluded.
Leave a Reply