Federal civil servants in Nigeria have renewed calls for the government to settle the outstanding three months of the ₦35,000 wage award, saying the prolonged delay is worsening economic hardship amid soaring inflation.
Speaking in Abuja, several workers told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that they were struggling to cope with everyday expenses as they awaited the fulfilment of commitments made during earlier negotiations.
Dr Uche Anune faulted what he described as the government’s reactive approach to labour issues. “The government shouldn’t wait for protests or unrest before doing what is right,” he said.
Another civil servant, Joseph Edeh, said the halt in payments after only two instalments had eroded trust. “We were told five months were outstanding. They paid two and then stopped. It makes us question the government’s sincerity,” he said. He urged authorities to “clear the remaining months at once”.
Miss Franca Ofili said many households depended heavily on the allowance to meet essential needs. “The ₦35,000 helps with food, transport and other pressing bills. Delaying it puts workers under unnecessary pressure,” she said.
The Federal Government, however, insists it has not reneged on its promise. Bawa Mokwa, spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, said three tranches remain following the disbursement of the second batch in August.
He explained that payments were dependent on the availability of funds. “The government is committed to settling the arrears. The wage award will continue to be paid in monthly instalments of ₦35,000 until the backlog is cleared,” he said.
