Labour Issues August 11 Ultimatum to Federal Government Over Unpaid Wage Awards and Allowances

Organized public sector labor unions have issued an August 11 ultimatum to the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, requesting an urgent audience to address the non-payment of two months’ outstanding wage awards and the delayed implementation of a approved 40 percent peculiar allowance.

The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC – Trade Union Side) warned that persistent official silence on the matter risks triggering widespread industrial unrest across federal civil service institutions.

In a formal communication signed by National Secretary Gbenga Olowoyo on behalf of Chairman Benjamin Yanto, the union expressed concern over the lack of response to two previous letters sent on May 5 and July 9. The council characterized the meeting request as a proactive measure to prevent severe industrial action.

The primary demands of the labor council involve:

Peculiar Allowance Implementation: Execution of the approved 40 percent peculiar allowance authorized by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, effective May 1, 2026.

* **Wage Award Arrears:** Immediate disbursement of outstanding monthly wage awards for March and April 2026, which were instituted as temporary relief measures following fuel subsidy removals.

The union noted that despite official circulars released by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission approving the allowances, several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) have failed to reflect the adjustments in civil servants’ compensation, leading to growing dissatisfaction among federal workers.