The wage award, introduced as part of the Federal Government's palliative package to cushion the impact of rising living costs, has faced delays despite earlier assurances of prompt disbursement. Workers in affected MDAs have expressed frustration over the staggered payment process, urging the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) to expedite the release of pending funds.
Labour unions have warned that persistent delays could spark renewed industrial tensions, calling on the government to ensure equitable and simultaneous payment across all MDAs. The unions emphasized the importance of timely payment, citing the economic hardships faced by workers due to rising living costs.
The Federal Government had previously paid five months' worth of the wage award in instalments, with the remaining five months' arrears to be paid in instalments of ₦35,000 per month ². However, the delayed payment has raised concerns among workers, who are seeking prompt resolution to the issue.
In response to the delays, the OAGF assured workers that it would work closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure seamless disbursement and that no eligible employee would be left out of the process ³. However, the uneven payment has sparked concerns about the government's commitment to timely payment.
As the situation unfolds, workers and labour unions will be closely watching the government's response to the delayed payment. The prompt resolution of this issue will be crucial in maintaining industrial harmony and addressing the economic hardships faced by federal workers.