Labour Unions Demand Wage Payment by February 27, 2026

Labour unions in Nigeria have issued an ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding the immediate release of funds to settle three months of outstanding wage awards. The deadline is set for February 27, 2026.

The unions accuse the government of withholding funds meant for workers, which has led to a prolonged dispute over wage awards that have remained unpaid for two years. The unions, represented by the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council, have warned that failure to meet the deadline will compel eight civil service unions to take decisive action.

The issue stems from the government's approval of a ₦70,000 minimum wage and the removal of fuel subsidies, with partial payments made but three months still outstanding. The unions have highlighted that the Ministry of Finance has not released the necessary funds for wage awards, which has created tension within the federal workforce.

They have also listed other outstanding obligations requiring urgent attention, including promotion arrears and salary arrears for employees recruited between 2015 and 2024.