Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on September 21, 2024, 5:35 PM

In a world where entertainment often seems to overshadow the essential, the question of earnings and value comes to the forefront. Seun Kuti, a renowned Nigerian musician and activist, has recently brought a critical issue into the spotlight: the stark contrast in earnings between Footballers and Essential workers.

Kuti, in his characteristic thought-provoking manner, questions the societal values that dictate such a significant wage gap. He points out that while footballers are celebrated and paid millions to "chase a ball around a field," essential workers — nurses, doctors, teachers, and paramedics — who are the backbone of society, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, earn much less.

The disparity is indeed jarring. Footballers, whose careers are in the realm of entertainment, can command astronomical sums for their skills on the pitch. Meanwhile, essential workers, who provide services that are fundamental to the functioning of society, often face financial struggles despite their invaluable contributions.

Kuti's statements resonate with a broader discourse on the value we place on different professions. It's a conversation that delves into the economics of supply and demand, the cultural premium placed on entertainment, and the moral questions about how we value the work that is crucial to our daily lives.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a stark reminder of the essential nature of certain professions. As sports events were canceled or played behind closed doors, healthcare workers continued to risk their lives on the front lines. The world witnessed the indispensable nature of their work, yet the remuneration for these roles did not reflect their societal importance.

Kuti's critique extends beyond a call for higher wages for essential workers; it's a challenge to the very fabric of our value system. Why do we, as a society, reward entertainment so handsomely while the sectors that sustain and protect life lag behind?

This debate is not new, but Kuti's voice adds a powerful dimension to the ongoing conversation. It's a call for introspection and, perhaps, a reevaluation of our priorities. As we continue to navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world, questions like Kuti's are not only timely but necessary.

The conversation Kuti has sparked is not just about fairness; it's about the kind of world we want to live in. It's about recognizing the worth of those who educate our children, care for our sick, and keep our communities safe. It's about understanding that without these essential workers, the very fabric of society would unravel.

As we ponder Kuti's question, we must also ask ourselves: What value do we place on the essential over the entertaining? And more importantly, how can we begin to shift the balance to reflect the true importance of these roles in our lives?

Seun Kuti's inquiry is a call to action, a reminder that change begins with a question, and the answers we seek can redefine the future for all workers, essential and otherwise.