FG Given 24-Hour Ultimatum to Settle Wage Arrears

The Federal Government of Nigeria has received a 24-hour ultimatum from the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, representing eight civil service unions, to release funds for unpaid wage arrears. Workers have not received salaries for three months, with the deadline set for February 27, 2026.

The unions have accused the government of withholding funds that are ready for disbursement, despite partial payments being made. The dispute began after the government approved a wage increase of N70,000 following the removal of fuel subsidies.

Workers are also expecting the implementation of issues raised by the unions, including unpaid promotion arrears for staff elevated three years ago and salary arrears for employees recruited between 2015 and 2024. The unions have emphasized that the federal workers should not endure hardship due to delays in payment and are entitled to respect.