Labor Union Demands Action on Unpaid Wages by February 2026

The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) has issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate release of funds to clear three months of unpaid wages owed to civil servants across various ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The deadline set for this demand is February 27, 2026.

The unions accuse the government of deliberately withholding funds meant for workers, despite claims that relevant agencies are ready to process payments once the money is released. The unpaid wages are linked to the approval of a ₦70,000 minimum wage and the removal of fuel subsidies, with payments having been delayed for over two years.

The unions have highlighted that the Federal Government has left workers with three months of unpaid wages and has only made staggered payments under pressure. They also listed outstanding obligations requiring urgent attention, including salary arrears and promotions.

The JNPSNC warned that failure to meet their demands would lead to decisive action from the unions.