Senator Orji Kalu, representing Abia North, has proposed a significant increase in the minimum wage to N90,000 amidst his assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging successes in certain economic policies while highlighting concerns over hunger among citizens.
In an interview with Channels Television, Kalu provided a nuanced evaluation of Tinubu’s presidency, praising achievements in economic and monetary policies while criticizing deficiencies in fiscal policies, particularly regarding food security.
“I’m sure the president has done well in some areas and he also needs to improve in many other areas. I’m a very practical person, I fear nobody and I support the truth,” Kalu asserted.
He specifically praised Tinubu’s achievements in economic and monetary policies but highlighted deficiencies in fiscal policies, particularly regarding food security.
“President Tinubu has done so well in some areas, and in some other areas of feeding our people, people are hungry so I cannot say,” Kalu remarked, emphasizing the critical need to enhance food production under Tinubu’s leadership.
While acknowledging the importance of fiscal policies that promote agriculture and food production, Kalu expressed skepticism about the proposed N62,000 minimum wage, arguing it would not effectively address current inflationary pressures.
“I’m a proponent that local governments should be getting their money fully,” Kalu added, advocating for robust fiscal support at the grassroots level to enhance economic activities and welfare.
He further advocated for a higher minimum wage, proposing N90,000 to adequately cater to the needs of civil servants, citing the lack of minimum wage increases over the past five years.
“I’m a practical person. The civil servants need good treatment,” Kalu affirmed, underscoring the importance of improving living standards amidst economic challenges.
Kalu’s call for a higher minimum wage underscores ongoing debates about economic policies and social welfare under President Tinubu’s administration, reflecting diverse perspectives on national development and governance.