The Federal Government has confirmed the payment of ₦152 billion to contractors for verified contracts, according to a statement issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance (FMF).
In the notice, the ministry said the payments were made following established verification procedures in line with existing laws and regulations, aimed at protecting taxpayers’ funds while ensuring accountability and transparency in public spending.
The ministry acknowledged that delays in contract payments have placed financial strain on contractors but appealed for continued dialogue and engagement to resolve outstanding issues effectively.
“The process of payment for contracts goes through various verification processes in line with extant laws and regulations, to protect taxpayers’ money and ensure accountability and transparency,” the statement said.
The FMF also assured contractors of its openness to constructive engagement, urging them to respect institutional processes and ministry personnel. It noted that staff of the ministry had faced varying levels of intimidation and harassment in the course of discharging their duties.
According to the ministry, all outstanding payment requests will continue to be processed in a timely and consistent manner, subject to due process requirements.
The confirmation comes amid concerns from contractors over delayed payments on government-funded projects, with the ministry reiterating its commitment to resolving payment obligations while maintaining fiscal discipline.
Earlier Protest by Contractors
Federal contractors earlier staged a protest over delayed payments for executed projects, calling on the Federal Government to urgently settle outstanding claims to avert further disruptions to public infrastructure delivery.
The protesters, drawn from various sectors including construction and engineering, expressed frustration over prolonged verification and payment timelines, which they said had strained cash flows, increased borrowing costs, and slowed project execution nationwide.
Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the contractors demanded prompt settlement of verified contracts, arguing that delays had forced some firms to suspend work, lay off staff, or default on obligations to suppliers and lenders.