The Federal Government has started paying the second batch of the N35,000 wage award arrears to federal workers, three months after the first payment was made.
The Office of the Accountant General of the Federation confirmed the payment in a statement on Friday in Abuja, explaining that it is part of the outstanding wage award meant to reduce the impact of recent economic reforms on civil servants.
Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the office, said the government had earlier paid one month’s arrears out of the five months owed under the arrangement. With the second tranche now disbursed, the balance has dropped to three months.
He reminded workers that the N35,000 monthly wage award was introduced as a temporary measure after the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic changes that increased the cost of living. The payment was agreed upon with organised labour to help workers manage expenses until a new minimum wage is approved.
Reacting to claims that the government had abandoned the plan, Mokwa said the administration has not gone back on its word.
“The Federal Government has not reneged on its obligation. The wage award arrears will continue to be paid in instalments of N35,000 per month until the outstanding balance is completely settled,” the statement read.
The payment comes as labour unions continue to press the government for better wages to cushion the effect of inflation and rising prices.
