Federal Government workers are calling on the government to urgently pay the outstanding three months of the N35,000 wage award.

They argue that the unpaid arrears add to their financial burdens, especially amid rising living costs.

The wage award, negotiated in 2023 with labour unions, was meant to provide a temporary boost during the country’s economic reforms.

While two of the five awarded months have been paid in staggered tranches, workers say the rest is still owed.

Labour leaders from the Nigerian Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress have repeatedly pressed the government to fulfill its promise.

Dr Uche Anune, speaking for civil servants in Abuja on Sunday, warned that the government should not wait for mass protests before acting. He said, “They tend to be relaxed about it until people start agitating.”

Another worker, Mr Joseph Edeh, expressed frustration, noting, “They told us we had five months outstanding; after paying two, they stopped. Why are they treating us like this?” He urged that the remaining three months be cleared immediately.

Miss Franca Ofili added that the withheld amount is not trivial. She stressed that the N35,000 makes a real difference in solving many workers’ daily financial problems.

In response, the Federal Government, through Mr Bawa Mokwa of the Accountant-General’s office, affirmed its commitment.

Mokwa said payments will continue, but in tranches, depending on funds. He noted that three tranches remain.

The Federal Government Workers argue that finishing the payments soon will not only ease their financial pressure, but also restore trust and boost morale in the public service.