Federal government has confirmed the release of N152 billion to contractors as payment for projects that have been duly verified, following weeks of protests over unpaid debts.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Thursday, Doris Uzoka-Anite, minister of state for finance, said the disbursement was made after a thorough verification process carried out in line with existing laws and financial regulations.
She acknowledged the financial strain contractors faced due to delayed payments and assured them that efforts are ongoing to address all outstanding obligations.
“I wish to confirm that the Federal Ministry of Finance (@FinMinNigeria) has disbursed a total of N152 billion to contractors for verified contracts,” the statement reads.
“Every payment undergoes rigorous verification in accordance with extant laws and regulations, ensuring the protection of taxpayers’ funds and upholding accountability and transparency.”
“The Ministry acknowledges the financial pressures that delays in payment may have placed on contractors.”
“We remain committed to continuous dialogue and engagement, seeking effective resolutions to all conflicts.”
The payment comes amid sustained protests by indigenous contractors who have complained of a large backlog of unpaid contracts dating back to previous years.
Since 2025, members of All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) have staged demonstrations at key government offices, including the federal ministry of finance and the national assembly, demanding the settlement of verified debts.
In response to the agitation, President Bola Tinubu in December 2025 approved the formation of a multi-ministerial committee to address the issue, with outstanding claims estimated at about N1.5 trillion.
The committee comprises the minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, Wale Edun; minister of budget and economic planning, Atiku Bagudu; director-general of the budget office, Tanimu Yakubu; minister of works, Dave Umahi; minister of housing and urban development, Ahmed Dangiwa; and chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji.
The protests escalated earlier this week when contractors blocked the entrance of the finance ministry, preventing Uzoka-Anite from accessing the complex.
The confrontation led to a brief scuffle with security operatives, during which a gunshot was reportedly fired as officers tried to disperse the crowd.
