Workers Demand Action on Unpaid Allowance by March 31

Workers in Nigeria, represented by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), have issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government regarding unpaid allowances. The government has been given a deadline of March 31, 2026, to implement a 40% peculiar allowance associated with the newly approved minimum wage of ₦70,000.

The delay in payment has caused frustration among civil servants, with JNPSNC leaders Benjamin Uyantomni and Olowoyo Gbenga expressing concerns over the lack of communication and action from the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC). Despite proposals submitted to facilitate the payment process, no concrete steps have been taken since a formal letter was sent to the commission on September 1, 2025.

The workers warn that failure to comply by the deadline will lead to industrial action, which could disrupt activities across the country. The situation has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the new wage structure amid rising living costs and inflation.