National News
Workers Day: CHRICED Calls for Payment of Living Wage

Workers Day: CHRICED Calls for Payment of Living Wage
… Nigerian Workers Facing Unprecedented Hardship, Decries NHRC
By: Michael Mike
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called for payment of living wage to Nigerian workers.
In a signed statement to commemorate the Workers Day, the Executive Director of CHRICED, Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi,said: “On this Workers’ Day, we call on the Federal and State Governments to recognize workers as essential partners in national development. It is not enough to simply pay the minimum wage; governments must ensure that workers receive a living wage—a wage aligned with the real cost of living and adjusted regularly to reflect inflation and other macroeconomic conditions. Doing so will not only uplift the lives of workers but also boost national productivity and stability.
“We further urge the implementation of comprehensive social programmes that address workers’ needs in housing, healthcare, and agriculture.”
While saluting the resilience, perseverance, and unwavering commitment of Nigeria’s workforce, especially amid the harsh economic conditions that have worsened under the current administration of President Bola Tinubu, Zikirullahi said: “CHRICED acknowledges the growing financial burden on workers, many of whom now take on multiple jobs just to survive. Inflation has surged from 21% at the start of this administration to 24.23%, yet the Federal Government has failed to match this economic reality with meaningful improvements in workers’ welfare. It is unacceptable that the national minimum wage remains a paltry N70,000, despite increased government revenues from crude oil sales, expanded taxation, and savings from fuel subsidy removal. These revenue increases have also boosted state allocations through the Federal Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), leaving no excuse for states and the federal government to continue neglecting workers.
“We are particularly alarmed by reports such as the recent protest by workers in Oyo State, highlighting the Federal Government’s failure to pay wage awards for over five months. Additionally, despite the passage of the new minimum wage law on July 29, 2024, more than 20 states have yet to revise their salary structures in line with the law. This delay reflects a disturbing level of disregard for the well-being and dignity of Nigerian workers.”
He lamented that: “It is deeply troubling that while billions of naira are earmarked for allowances and perks for political elites across the executive, legislative, and judicial arms, civil servants receive little to no support—even during important festivities like Christmas or Eid. Under the “Renewed Hope” agenda, CHRICED is concerned that the current administration has failed to offer Nigerian workers any meaningful hope or pathway to improved livelihoods.”
CHRICED called on all tiers of government to act with urgency, empathy, and accountability in addressing these pressing issues, insisting that: “The welfare of Nigerian workers must be elevated from rhetoric to reality.”
Meanwhile, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu has decried that
Nigerian workers are facing unprecedented hardships due to high inflation rate which has significantly eroded the purchasing power of salaries, making it increasingly difficult for workers to afford basic necessities of life.
Ojukwu, in his statement on Workers Day, noted that the soaring cost of transportation has further compounded these challenges, often hindering workers’ ability to commute to their workplaces, thereby affecting overall productivity.
According to him, the Commission notes with great concern the harsh economic realities occasioned by the recent economic reforms. He said these have exacerbated poverty, rendering individuals vulnerable to preventive illnesses and deaths due to inadequate access to nutrition, and healthcare.
He said: “While we commend the Federal Government for some of the initiatives so far taken to alleviate the economic hardship, we call for economic reforms that prioritize human dignity, social justice and the well-being of citizens. Nigerians deserves policies that ensure decent work, fair wages and access to essential services, which will enable them to live with dignity and hope for a better future.”
He said that the Commission has observed reports indicating that law enforcement agencies have at some times suppressed peaceful protests, organized by citizens and workers who attempt to draw attention to their grievances. Such actions he said not only contravene the constitutional right to peaceful assembly but also stifle the democratic expression of concerns which is vital for national development.
He urged the Federal Government to use the Workers Day to engage more in constructive dialogue, as promised during the End Bad Governance protests, one that fosters open communication channels with labour unions and workers’ representatives to collaboratively address their concerns.
He also emphasised the need to ensure that law enforcement agencies respect and uphold citizens’ rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association in all aspects of their lives including economic concerns.
The NHRC boss further urged labour unions to adopt more proactive measures in advocating for workers’ rights as they serve as robust platforms for voicing workers’ concerns and negotiating better conditions on their behalf.
He reiterated the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian workers and ensuring that their voices are heard, respected, and acted upon, adding that the International Labour Day serves as a strong reminder of the invaluable contribution of the Nigerian Workers to National Development.
Workers Day: CHRICED Calls for Payment of Living Wage
National News
Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis

Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis
By: Zagazola Makama
The latest attack on Munga Lelau community in Karim Lamido Local Government Area of Taraba State has once again thrust the fragile security situation in the region into national focus. The attack, which reportedly occurred on Friday evening, left many dead and communities in mourning.
In response, Governor Agbu Kefas swiftly condemned the incident, describing the carnage as “horrendous and unacceptable.” In a press statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, the governor expressed outrage at the continuous assaults, warned of grave repercussions for the perpetrators, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to securing the state.
However, while such condemnation is commendable and necessary to signal empathy and political will, what is urgently required now is a comprehensive, transparent, and sustained response that goes beyond words. The time has come for Governor Kefas to not only condemn the attacks but also to lead a full-fledged, fact-based investigation into what truly transpired and why.
The attack in Munga Lelau is not an isolated case. It follows a recent incident in Bandawa where two farmers were reportedly killed by suspected bandits. This recurring pattern of violence often fueled by retaliatory attacks between farmers and herders points to deeper, unresolved tensions in the Karim Lamido axis. While the rainy season usually heightens competition for land and water resources, what we are seeing is the escalation of low-grade communal tension into full-blown armed conflict.
Security forces have, on several occasions, brokered peace accords between aggrieved parties. Yet, these agreements have often been short-lived. Just Yesterday, troops under Operation Lafiyan Jamaa had to intervene after youths from Badanwa reportedly attacked herders grazing near their village, sparking reprisals and further bloodshed.
This cycle of provocation and retaliation is precisely why Governor Kefas must now go beyond condemning the violence and institute a full investigation. There is a growing concern that certain individuals referred to as “conflict entrepreneurs” may be exploiting these tensions for personal or political gain. These actors must be identified and held accountable, regardless of ethnic or political affiliation.
Equally, justice must not be selective. All sides must be heard, and those found culpable, whether among farmers or herders, must face the full weight of the law. Only a fair and balanced approach can restore confidence in government intervention and prevent further descent into lawlessness.
To achieve lasting peace, the state government must adopt a three-pronged approach:
Deploy additional security personnel to flashpoints in Karim Lamido and impose necessary restrictions, including curfews, where needed to prevent reprisal attacks. Peace committees comprising community leaders, religious heads, and youth representatives should be activated or reconstituted to immediately de-escalate tensions.
Establish an independent investigative panel to ascertain the root causes of the recurring violence. This panel should be empowered to take testimonies, review previous peace accords, and recommend actionable strategies. Simultaneously, set up mobile courts to fast-track justice delivery and deter impunity.
Develop and implement a comprehensive land-use and grazing policy, supported by modern conflict resolution training and dialogue platforms across LGAs. More investments should also go into education, vocational training, and rural infrastructure to address some of the socioeconomic drivers of insecurity.
Taraba must not be allowed to slide into a theatre of unchecked violence. Now is the time for Gov. Kefas to lead boldly, ensuring not only that peace is restored but that it is sustainable, just, and inclusive.
Beyond condemnation, why Governor Kefas must act decisively to end karim lamido crisis
National News
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war

NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
By: Michael Mike
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Drug Enforcement Administration of the United States (DEA) have stressed the need to strengthen current collaboration between the two agencies on the fight against the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
This was the highpoint of discussion during a meeting between the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig Gen Buba Marwa (Rtd) and the Country Attache of US-DEA, Ms. Daphne Morrison on Friday at the NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja

Marwa, while appreciating the cordial
working relationship and partnership between NDLEA and DEA, Ms. Morrison who was recently posted to Nigeria said “I wanted to make this one of my priorities to come meet with you so we can continue to collaborate and work together.
“And thank you so much for your support over the years, and we’re ready to keep things going. I know you’ve been working well with the last Country Attaché, so I’m ready to get back in and collaborate and do some really great things with you.”
She said efforts are ongoing to organise more trainings for officers and men of the Special Operations Units of the afency Amwhile looking forward to a number of joint operations with NDLEA in already identified areas of interests.
In his response, the NDLEA boss acknowledged the excellent relationships with Morrison’s predecessors. He said: “They’ve been very, very supportive, and I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that it will be the same, if not better, with you.” He acknowledged the recent evolution of NDLEA in the size of its workforce, expansion of operational and administrative structures as well as remarkable successes recorded in its drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.
While acknowledging the support received from DEA over the years especially in areas of equipment, training, and joint operations, Marwa expressed hope that more of such support will continue. “I think we would welcome much more support but because this being your first visit to introduce yourself, I’m not going to bring out a long list of demands or requests, but just to acknowledge that we appreciate all the support we’ve been receiving.”
NDLEA, US-DEA to strengthen collaboration on drug war
National News
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership

APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
By: Michael Mike
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has affirmed its unwavering commitment to the one-China principle, recognising Taiwan as an integral part of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).
Speaking in an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, the APC National Vice-Chairman (North-East), Comrade Mustapha Salihu, said the party is in full alignment with the federal government’s diplomatic stance.
He said: “Nigeria is unequivocally committed to the One-China Principle. Consequently, the policies and principles of the APC will mirror those of our federal government in diplomatic matters.
“China is a significant partner for our nation; they regard us as equals rather than a lesser nation. This perspective fosters a relationship of mutual progress. Therefore, it is wise for the government to support the one-China principle.”
Salihu reiterated the APC’s firm support for the government’s diplomatic policies, stating, “As a party, we stand resolutely behind the one-China principle.”
He praised the positive outcomes of Nigeria-China diplomatic relations, particularly in trade, investment, and infrastructural development.
He said: “Our partnership with China has yielded substantial results. We have witnessed the construction of extensive roads, bridges, and railways by Chinese companies, with counterpart funding from the Chinese government.
“In addition, projects such as the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) natural gas pipeline and various free trade zones in Nigeria have been funded, in whole or in part, by Chinese institutions. Chinese enterprises are eager to establish factories and businesses in Nigeria, and many are already contributing to our economy,” he noted.
He attributed the influx of foreign investment in Nigeria to the APC administration’s business-friendly policies, including amendments to the Companies and Allied Matters Act, which have streamlined processes for investors.
He expressed the party’s readiness to strengthen ties with the Communist Party of China (CPC) through collaboration in cultural exchange, trade, education, and human capital development.
He said: “We are dedicated to fostering mutual growth and reinforcing our historic partnership.”
APC Affirms One-China Principle, Lauds Nigeria-China Partnership
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