Workers under the Trade Union Congress and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria on Tuesday held a protest at the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja over unpaid salaries, pensions, and allowances.
The workers, who are staff of the Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority, gathered at the ministry gate wearing red T-shirts and carrying placards. They blocked the entrance, stopping vehicles from entering or leaving the premises, which forced some civil servants to return home.
Speaking during the protest, TUC Secretary General, Nuhu Toro, said the Ministry of Finance had withheld the Internally Generated Revenue of the NNRA. He explained that salaries and pensions of NNRA staff are usually paid from that IGR.
“We are here because of the withheld IGR accrued to the NNRA, and we are finding it difficult to understand why,” Toro said. “Their colleagues in the same sector have been paid. This IGR is used to pay salaries, pensions, and allowances. So, if it is withheld, workers will suffer.”
Toro also said that the rising cost of living is making things worse.
“If salaries are not paid as and when due, you can imagine the suffering workers are subjected to. The value of the N70,000 minimum wage has already been eroded by inflation and high prices,” he added.
However, there was a sign of progress during the protest. Toro told the crowd that the Minister of Finance had approved the release of the funds.
“The Honourable Minister of Finance has graciously granted approval today,” he said. “The Permanent Secretary has assured us that the approval will translate into naira and kobo in our pockets within a very reasonable time. This protest is suspended—not called off—until Wednesday, May 21, 2024.”
Also addressing the protesters, Permanent Secretary for Special Duties, Raymond Omachi, confirmed that the payment process had begun.
“I have heard your grievances, and I have reached out to the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy. They have given me the go-ahead to ensure your demands are met. We are working on it, and within the next 48 hours, you will receive your payments,” he said.
Omachi thanked the workers for their patience, saying, “Your voice has been heard, and we will not disappoint you.”
