Reps consider bill to pay ₦3,500 daily wage to rural workers

Reps consider bill to pay ₦3,500 daily wage to rural workers

The House of Representatives is considering a new bill aimed at reducing poverty and boosting development in Nigeria’s rural communities.

Titled “The National Integrated Rural Development Bill, 2025,” the proposal focuses on all areas officially recognised as rural based on demographic and economic standards.

The bill, sponsored by Hon. Marcus Onobun (Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency, Edo State), has passed its first reading and is awaiting a second reading in the House.

If passed, the law will guarantee wage employment for rural households, with every adult who engages in unskilled manual labour earning a daily wage of ₦3,500 for at least 100 days per year.

It also proposes the creation of a National Integrated Rural Development Agency, which will coordinate and implement projects, monitor progress, and promote innovation and technology in rural development.

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One-third of all job opportunities created under the scheme will be reserved for women in rural communities.

Other key goals of the bill include reducing poverty, improving rural infrastructure, boosting agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and expanding access to education, healthcare, and other social services.

The bill also provides for a Governing Council to be chaired by a presidential appointee recommended by the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security. The agency’s revenue would be exempt from income tax, while contributions to its fund would be tax-deductible.

Explaining the essence of the proposal, Hon. Onobun said the bill seeks to provide a “legal and institutional framework to promote sustainable rural development, reduce poverty, and enhance livelihoods through coordinated national efforts.”

The bill is expected to be debated on the House floor in the coming weeks.

Reps consider bill to pay ₦3,500 daily wage to rural workers

(PUNCH)