We Will Clear N35,000 Wage Award Arrears, FG Assures Civil Servants

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has assured of the Federal Government’s commitment to paying off the N35,000 wage awards it owes workers.

THE WHISTLER in December 2023 reported that the federal government failed to uphold its commitment to the N35,000 wage award with the Trade Union Congress, (TUC).

The provisional wage was meant to be palliatives paid to workers for six months beginning October 2023 to cushion the hardship caused by the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

During a meeting with the TUC on Wednesday, January 17, 2023, in Abuja, Onyejeocha reiterated that the process of payment is still in motion for the stipulated period of six months as earlier agreed.

Onyejeocha said, “The government is working round the clock to ensure that agreements with trade unions are fulfilled.

“I am here specifically to reassure you that we have not forgotten about the agreements between the government and trade unions.

“Thank God that you have confirmed that the federal government has started paying the N35,000 wage award, and I can assure you that the payment is on course and the outstanding amount will be paid within a short period of time.

“I know that the President is focused on making sure that the issue of a new national minimum wage is addressed. The government will ensure that the committee starts working in earnest.

“We do not want to wait for any stakeholder to start agitating. That is why I have come to remind you that I am aware of those agreements, and we are working around the clock to make sure they are fulfilled.”