In response to sustained protests by local contractors over longstanding payment delays, the Federal Government of Nigeria has disbursed ₦152 billion to contractors for rigorously verified projects.
Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, announced the payment in a statement on Thursday, emphasizing that the funds were released only after thorough verification processes in full compliance with existing laws and financial regulations.
"I wish to confirm that the Federal Ministry of Finance has disbursed a total of ₦152 billion to contractors for verified contracts," the minister stated. "Every payment undergoes rigorous verification in accordance with extant laws and regulations, ensuring the protection of taxpayers’ funds and upholding accountability and transparency."
The announcement comes amid escalating demonstrations by members of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) and other groups, who have repeatedly blocked access to the Ministry of Finance headquarters and the National Assembly complex.
Protesters have highlighted a massive debt backlog—estimated by some at up to ₦1.5 trillion or even ₦4 trillion for projects completed under previous budgets, particularly those executed in 2024.The contractors' grievances intensified earlier this month, with reports of tense confrontations involving security personnel, including a warning shot fired during one recent blockade.
In December 2025, President Bola Tinubu established a multi-ministerial committee, comprising key figures such as Finance Minister Wale Edun, Budget Minister Atiku Bagudu, and others to address the outstanding obligations and expedite resolutions.
The ministry acknowledged the severe financial strain that payment delays have imposed on contractors and reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing dialogue. "The Ministry acknowledges the financial pressures that delays in payment may have placed on contractors," the statement noted.
"We remain committed to continuous dialogue and engagement, seeking effective resolutions to all conflicts."While the ₦152 billion payment represents a significant step, contractors maintain that substantial amounts remain unpaid, and protests have continued in Abuja even as the disbursement was confirmed.
Government officials have indicated that further verifications and payments are in progress to clear the broader backlog.
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