Workers Fume As FG Delays Last Three Months Of ₦35,000 Wage Award

Federal civil servants have called on the Federal Government to immediately settle the outstanding three months of the ₦35,000 wage award, warning that the continued delay is deepening their financial strain amid the country’s escalating cost of living.

According to Ireporter Online, the wage award—introduced in 2023 as a temporary palliative during the government’s economic reforms—was meant to cushion workers’ hardship. Although five months were initially owed, only two have been cleared in staggered payments, leaving many employees frustrated over the slow pace of settlement.

Labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have consistently reminded the government that the wage award formed part of an agreed framework that helped avert nationwide industrial action last year. They maintain that full payment is overdue and essential to sustaining trust between both parties.

Some civil servants who spoke in Abuja expressed displeasure over what they described as a recurring pattern of delayed government action until workers resort to agitation. One of them, Dr. Uche Anune, lamented that authorities often respond only after protests begin, describing the approach as unfair and reactive. Another worker, Joseph Edeh, questioned the government’s sincerity after the payment of just two out of the five-month backlog, urging officials to release the balance at once. Miss Franca Ofili also noted that the delay has intensified economic hardship for many households, insisting that the ₦35,000 monthly award makes a significant difference.

Responding to the growing concerns, the Federal Government, through the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr. Bawa Mokwa, maintained that it has not abandoned the arrears. He explained that the staggered payments are tied to fund availability but assured workers that the remaining three months will be paid. Mokwa reiterated that the government remains committed to clearing the arrears in full.

Civil servants, however, stressed that timely payment is vital not only to ease personal financial pressure but also to sustain confidence in the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare. They urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent unrest and preserve industrial stability.