Nigeria: Labour unions give FG ultimatum over unpaid wages

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Organised labour in Nigeria’s federal public service has given the government a Friday, February 27, 2026, deadline to release funds for three months’ outstanding wage award and other pending allowances owed workers.

The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) accused the government of deliberately withholding funds, despite agencies being ready to process payments. The wage award dispute, lingering for over two years, followed the approval of a N70,000 minimum wage after fuel subsidy removal.

Labour leaders said partial payments were made after sustained pressure, but three months remain unpaid since July 2024. They warned of looming industrial unrest, threatening decisive action if the government fails to meet the deadline.

Other outstanding issues include promotion arrears, salary arrears, and accurate payment of a 40% peculiar allowance. The unions have forwarded their demands to relevant authorities, including the Finance Ministry and Labour Ministry.