Civil servants demand immediate payment of N35,000 wages arrears’

Civil servants in Abuja have called on the Federal Government to immediately clear the outstanding four months’ arrears of the N35,000 wage award promised to them.

Speaking to the newsmen on Monday, the workers expressed frustration over the delay in the payment, which they say has created doubts about the government’s sincerity.

The wage award, initially approved for a five-month period, was meant to cushion the impact of economic hardship on federal workers.

The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) had in April 2025 announced plans to pay the N35,000 monthly arrears in five instalments, beginning after the April 2025 salary.

Although one instalment was paid in May, no further payments have been made since then, raising concerns among workers.

Dr. Uche Anune, a federal worker, criticised the government for its delay, saying authorities often act only after workers begin to agitate.

“The government made a promise without being pressured. The honourable thing is to fulfil it without waiting for protests,” he said.

Mr. Joseph Edeh also expressed disappointment over the delay, urging the government to clear the remaining four months’ arrears in a single payment.

“They paid just one month and stopped.

“Why the inconsistency? People are suffering. Let them just pay off the balance and move on,” Edeh said.

Miss Franca Ofili noted that the N35,000 wage award would go a long way in helping workers manage their finances amid rising costs of living.

“The government should ease our burden and keep its word. That money means a lot to many families,” she said.

The civil servants urged the Federal Government to honour its commitment and prioritise the welfare of its workforce to restore trust and boost productivity.