N-Power Beneficiaries Protest at National Assembly Over Unpaid Stipends

Beneficiaries of the federal government’s N-Power programme staged a peaceful protest at Nigeria’s National Assembly complex and the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on Wednesday, demanding payment of stipends allegedly withheld for nine months.

The protesters, under the banner of the National Association of N-Power Beneficiaries, carried placards with inscriptions such as “Renewed Hope or Recycled Neglect? N-Power,” “They Worked, Pay Them,” and “Pay N-Power.”

In a statement, the group accused the government of failing to meet its obligations, stating that the prolonged delay has caused “severe financial hardship, emotional stress and loss of dignity” for thousands of youths who depended on the programme. They demanded immediate payment of all arrears and clear communication regarding the scheme’s future.

“Our legitimate entitlements have been unjustly withheld, despite our patience and consistent service,” read the statement signed by the association’s National Publicity Secretary, Adeshina A. Adex.

The protest highlights a lingering controversy dating back to previous administrations. Beneficiaries have engaged in repeated appeals and previous demonstrations over outstanding stipends. In 2025, a group sued the Federal Government at the National Industrial Court over the non-payment.

The N-Power programme was launched in 2016 to tackle youth unemployment by providing skills, work experience, and temporary income support. Beneficiaries are deployed to public institutions in sectors like education, health, agriculture, and technology.

Despite its aims, the initiative has been frequently criticized for issues including alleged corruption, mismanagement, and the inclusion of “ghost beneficiaries” on its payroll. The protesters have reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful engagement but warned they will not remain silent in the face of what they term continued injustice.