By FAVOUR EFENURE

Everyday, millions of Nigerians wake up early, leave their homes, and spend long hours working to earn an honest living. They do everything society expects of them—show up, stay committed, and perform their duties. Yet for many, the reward for their effort is no longer enough to sustain a decent life. Hard work no longer guarantees financial stability.

Working hard and earning little means putting in great effort without receiving returns that match it. It is painful when someone gives their time and strength daily but still struggles to afford basic needs. No one should have to choose between rent, food, and healthcare after a full month of labour, yet this is the reality for many Nigerian workers.

Although the minimum wage has been raised to ?70,000, I believe it is still inadequate considering the current cost of living. Prices of food, transportation, housing, electricity, and healthcare continue to rise. What once sustained a family for a month now lasts only a few days, leaving many salaries exhausted shortly after payment.

For example, imagine a man earning ?70,000 monthly with a wife and children to support. From this income, he must provide food, pay rent, cover medical expenses, transport himself to work, and meet other daily needs. He may also hope to save for emergencies or his children’s future. With today’s economic realities, this becomes extremely difficult, even with careful budgeting.

In my view, the government has a major role to play in addressing this situation, as the rising cost of living affects all workers. One key area that needs urgent attention is fuel pricing. When fuel becomes expensive, transportation costs increase, and this also drives up the price of goods and services. Reducing fuel prices would ease pressure on ordinary citizens.

Some argue that ?70,000 is sufficient if individuals manage their finances wisely. I do not agree. We are in 2026, not 2006. Even as a student, I have experienced how costly everyday living has become. Looking at basic monthly expenses, it is difficult to see how an average family can survive comfortably on such an amount.

I once met a young woman who graduated from university and applied for a teaching position. After completing her studies, she was offered a salary of ?50,000 per month. She accepted it because she needed employment. That experience stayed with me and reflects the harsh reality many graduates face after years of academic effort.

After spending years in school and investing heavily in education, many graduates enter the workforce only to receive wages that barely cover basic needs. Sadly, teachers and many other professionals continue to experience this challenge despite their essential contributions to society.

While the government must take responsibility for improving workers’ welfare, young people also need to prepare ahead. Education remains important, but it should not be the only preparation for the future. Learning a trade, acquiring vocational skills, or developing additional income streams while studying is essential. As the saying goes, do not put all your eggs in one basket.

A nation cannot truly progress when hardworking citizens remain trapped in poverty despite their efforts. Workers deserve wages that reflect economic realities and allow them to live with dignity. Labour should bring hope and stability, not constant struggle. Until meaningful changes are made, many Nigerians will continue to work tirelessly without enjoying the true value of their effort. That is not the future any hardworking citizen deserves.

•Favour Efenure is a 200-level Journalism and Media Studies student at Delta State University, Abraka. She has a strong interest in opinion writing, news reporting, and covering social and economic issues affecting everyday Nigerians.

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