NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE AND ITS EFFECTS ON THE WORKERS' LIVINGSTANDARDS IN AWKA NORTH AND SOUTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREASANAMBRA STATE, 2011-2024

Abstract

This study critically examined the Effects of National Minimum Wage on Workers' Living Standards in Awka North and South Local Government Areas of Anambra State, Nigeria, from 2011 to 2024. Grounded in Karl Marx's critique of capitalism, the study explored how structural wage systems perpetuate socioeconomic inequality and limit workers' quality of life. The research population
comprised of civil service employees within the two local government areas. Data were collected through both primary and secondary sources. Taro Yamane's (1964) formula was used to determine sample size, and a stratified sampling technique ensured representativeness across various civil service departments. Findings indicated that minimum wage increments had a insignificant effect on workers' ability to meet basic living standard, thereby undermining the core purpose of the policy. Additionally,
the study revealed that inadequate and inconsistent wage adjustments have eroded the self-esteem of low-income workers and constrained their economic autonomy, limiting their ability to make independent life choices. The study concluded that national minimum wage increments alone, is
insufficient to improve the quality of life of low-income civil servant workers, without complementary policies. Therefore, the study advocated for sound fiscal management practices, suggesting that wage increases should be funded through a restructured government expenditure profile rather than through borrowing or fiscal deficits. Thus the study contributed to knowledge by offering a worker-centered
perspective on the national minimum wage. The implication is that the lack of specific anti-bullying policies in Nigeria, particularly as it affects low-income workers is both a social justice and policy oversight issue.