The conversation around workplace frustrations is not new, but it remains painfully relevant for many Nigerians, especially workers here in Ibadan. I’ve noticed that almost everywhere you go — from the bustling markets to offices and even public sector roles — there is a shared sigh about being overworked yet underpaid and undervalued. But why exactly is this the case? And why does it feel like this cycle continues to trap so many of us?
Understanding the Overused Worker in Ibadan
When we say "overused," we’re talking about the workload versus compensation imbalance. Many Nigerian employees carry out extra duties outside their job description without additional pay. For instance, a junior staff at a local government office may also be tasked with duties typically meant for higher-ranking officers—like organizing meetings, handling urgent reports, or even managing crisis situations—yet their paycheck remains the same. The “extra hand” becomes the “default hand,” and the exhaustion sets in.
In the private sector, especially within small and medium enterprises here in Ibadan, the situation can be just as bad. A shop manager might double as the accountant, customer service, and inventory controller. The pressure to keep the business afloat means workers often stretch beyond their capacity, feeling the strain day after day.
Underpaid: The Salary Squeeze
Salary issues are at the heart of many worker complaints. Despite Nigeria’s inflation levels and rising living costs, salaries often do not reflect economic realities. Someone earning thirty to fifty thousand naira monthly in Ibadan faces impossible choices when rent, transport, food, and family obligations are considered. The problem is compounded by delayed salaries or inconsistent payment, which many workers endure silently for fear of losing their job.
Take for example Nyasha, a young graduate who completed NYSC last year and now works at a digital marketing firm in Bodija. She told me she barely gets paid enough to cover transportation and data expenses necessary for her work. Negotiating salary increases is often seen as risky in Nigeria, with many fearing they will be tagged as troublemakers or be replaced easily due to the high workforce supply.
The Hidden Cost: Feeling Undervalued
Besides financial pay, many Nigerians in the workforce express feeling little respect or recognition for their efforts. Employers rarely invest in staff development—no training, no clear career path, no motivational incentives. Without being valued, workers’ enthusiasm naturally dips, leading to reduced productivity and a sense of helplessness. For example, a teacher at a public school in Ibadan may work extra hours, prepare additional lessons, or cover for absent colleagues, but appreciation often ends at a “thank you” or a tired nod.
Workplace Ethics and Nigerian Realities
Workplace ethics, or the lack thereof, worsen the experience. Favoritism, nepotism, and corruption mean that hard work doesn’t always equate to rewards or promotions. This environment fosters distrust and cynicism. A factory worker might see less qualified acquaintances promoted based on connections, not competence. This perception kills morale and breeds quiet resentment.
What Can Be Done?
- Clear Job Descriptions and Fair Workload Distribution: Employers should define roles clearly and resist the urge to overload employees. In Ibadan, especially in startups or government offices, this can reduce burnout and increase focus.
- Transparent Salary Policies: Workers deserve to know how salaries are determined and whether there are paths to increase based on performance or tenure.
- Employee Recognition: Simple gestures—like monthly awards, staff appreciation days, and professional development opportunities—can build morale.
- Union and Worker Advocacy: Stronger, organized voice for workers can demand fair treatment, pushing back against abuses.
- Self-Investment: Workers need to continuously upskill—a digital marketing course, accounting skills, or basic management workshops—to make themselves indispensable and improve bargaining power.
Final Thoughts
It’s no secret that being a Nigerian worker today is tough. But it’s important to remember that many employers aren’t intentionally exploiting staff—they are also battling economic challenges. Still, for Ibadan to thrive as a growing economic hub, workplaces must commit to valuing their workers genuinely.
If you are reading this as a worker who feels overstretched, undervalued, or underpaid, you are not alone. It’s time we open more honest conversations about fair work practices and hold both employers and governments accountable. If you are an employer or policymaker, consider how supporting workers better can translate into improved productivity and economic growth for our city.
What experiences have you had in your workplace regarding workload and pay? Do you think collective action—like forming unions or workers’ groups—is possible or effective in Ibadan’s current climate? And what practical steps do you believe employers can take immediately to improve workplace ethics without heavy financial burdens?