Pay Us Outstanding N35,000 Wage Arrears, Civil Servants Insist 

Federal civil servants have urged the Federal Government to promptly pay the remaining three months of the N35,000 wage award, stressing that the arrears are crucial in easing financial pressures amid rising living costs.

The wage award, negotiated with labour unions in 2023, was designed as a temporary measure to cushion workers during the government’s ongoing economic reforms.

While five months of the award have been partially disbursed in staggered tranches, employees have expressed frustration over the delayed completion of the remaining payments.

The Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress have repeatedly called on the government to honour its obligations. Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja on Sunday, Dr Uche Anune criticised the government’s approach, saying it often waits for protests before acting.

“I am seeing a pattern where the government only responds when workers agitate. That should not be the case,” he said.

Another civil servant, Joseph Edeh, demanded the immediate settlement of the remaining arrears, describing the delay as a reflection of the government’s lack of sincerity.

“They said we had five months outstanding; after paying two months, they stopped. Why are they treating us this way? They should pay the remaining three months in full,” he said.

Similarly, Franca Ofili highlighted the financial strain caused by the unpaid wages. “That N35,000 can significantly ease our financial problems. The government should pay the outstanding arrears at once,” she said.

Responding to the workers’ concerns, Mr Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to clearing the arrears.

He explained that payments would continue in tranches based on fund availability.

“Contrary to claims in some quarters, the Federal Government has not reneged on the wage award. With the second tranche paid in August, three tranches remain. The government will continue disbursing N35,000 per month until the arrears are fully cleared,” he said.

Civil servants emphasised that timely payment is critical not only for alleviating financial burdens but also for maintaining morale and confidence in the government’s labour commitments.

They urged the Federal Government to act promptly to prevent unrest and preserve trust among public sector employees.