In a move aimed at addressing the widespread hunger across Nigeria, the House of Representatives has pledged to cut their salaries by 50% for six months. The decision was made during a plenary session on Thursday, presided over by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu amended the motion, urging his colleagues to sacrifice 50% of their salaries to support the cause. “This government is doing its best, but one year is not enough to address the challenges of this country,” Kalu said. “I want to plead with our colleagues to sacrifice 50% for a period of six months.”
Kalu explained that the sacrifice would amount to N300,000 from each member’s monthly salary of N600,000. The total contribution from the legislative chamber would be N108 million monthly and N648 million for the six-month period.
“This is a gesture to show our commitment to the welfare of Nigerians,” Kalu added. “We must lead by example and show that we are truly committed to the wellbeing of our citizens.”
The move has been hailed as a positive step towards addressing the hunger crisis in Nigeria, and it remains to be seen whether other government agencies and individuals will follow suit.