Peter Obi Criticizes ₦21 Million Monthly Salary for Senators

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the reported ₦21 million monthly salary of Nigerian senators, labeling it as a significant factor impeding the country’s development.

Obi pointed out the stark contrast between the earnings of senators, some of whom may only hold a Secondary School Certificate, and those of PhD holders, who would take approximately 10 years to earn the same amount.

In a statement released on Friday, Obi responded to comments by the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Chris Maiyaki, who highlighted the need for more PhD holders to address educational challenges in Nigeria.

Obi argued that the country’s failure to reward hard work and academic attainment is a major barrier to achieving this goal.

He emphasized that while a PhD holder in Nigeria might earn around ₦150,000 per month, often paid irregularly, senators receive ₦21 million monthly. He further noted that legislators are also provided with SUVs worth ₦160 million, a luxury far beyond the reach of most academics.

Obi stressed the importance of shifting Nigeria’s focus from consumption to production, advocating for greater investment in education and innovation. He called for a system that values knowledge and expertise over political positions to help restore the country’s standing in global education rankings.

“The solution lies in moving towards a production-oriented society that rewards hard work, innovation, and talent,” Obi stated. “This transformation is essential to restoring Nigeria’s former prestige in global education and elevating the quality of our higher education system.”