“If You Earn Below ₦300,000, Difference Between You and Almajiri Is Plate”

A statement by Action Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Usman Okai Austin has sparked debate online after he argued that Nigerians earning less than ₦300,000 monthly in Abuja are struggling to survive at almost the same level as Almajiris.

Okai made the remark while discussing the rising cost of living and the economic pressure facing residents of Nigeria’s capital. His comments have generated strong reactions, with some Nigerians describing them as a harsh reality while others criticised the comparison as insensitive.

“The Difference Is Plate”

According to reports, Okai said that if a person's salary is below ₦300,000 in Abuja, the individual is effectively living at a very low economic level.

His argument was based largely on the high cost of living in the Federal Capital Territory, where expenses such as rent, transportation, food and utilities can consume a significant portion of an individual's income.

The statement has particularly resonated online because many Nigerians say their salaries have failed to keep pace with rising living expenses.

Nigerians React

The comment quickly generated heated reactions on social media and online forums.

Some people agreed with Okai, arguing that inflation has significantly reduced the purchasing power of the naira. Others, however, condemned the statement as disrespectful to low-income earners and Almajiris.

A major point raised by commentators is that ₦300,000 does not have the same purchasing power everywhere in Nigeria. While the amount may be difficult to survive on in expensive areas of Abuja or Lagos, it could provide a more comfortable living for a modest household in some other parts of the country.

Rising Cost of Living Fuels Debate

The controversy comes amid continuing concerns over the cost of food, transportation, housing and other basic necessities in Nigeria.

For many workers, the challenge is not simply how much they earn but how much remains after paying for essential expenses.

A salary that once provided reasonable financial security can now be quickly exhausted by rent, transportation, food and household bills.

A Controversial Comment or Economic Reality?

Okai's statement has therefore opened a broader conversation about wages, poverty and the standard of living in Nigeria.

While critics believe comparing low-income workers with Almajiris is unnecessarily insulting, supporters argue that the politician was attempting to highlight the severe impact of inflation and declining purchasing power.

Ultimately, the controversy raises an important question: What should constitute a decent living wage for Nigerians, particularly those living in expensive cities such as Abuja?

As the cost of living continues to dominate public discussion, many Nigerians are calling for stronger measures to improve wages, create better-paying jobs and reduce the financial burden on ordinary households.

What do you think? Is ₦300,000 enough to live comfortably in Abuja in 2026?