Thousands of federal government employees across Nigeria are expressing growing concern over the continued delay in the payment of their June salaries, as many workers say they have yet to receive their monthly wages.
The development has generated widespread frustration among civil servants, many of whom rely solely on their monthly salaries to meet essential financial obligations. The delay comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation, increasing food prices, transportation costs, and other economic challenges.
Several workers noted that most federal employees received their previous salaries between May 22 and May 25, meaning many have now gone for several weeks without a new salary payment. On social media and within government offices, some workers have humorously described the situation by saying that “today is the 42nd day of June,” a phrase reflecting the prolonged wait for their June salaries.
Despite the humour, many workers say the reality is far from amusing. According to them, the delay has made it difficult to pay rent, settle debts incurred during the Eid-el-Kabir (Sallah) celebration, cover children’s school expenses, and meet other household needs.
Workers Express Concern Over Unimplemented Peculiar Allowances
Beyond the delayed salaries, federal workers have also voiced disappointment over the continued non-implementation of approved peculiar allowances.
According to the workers, the Federal Government approved the allowances several months ago, raising expectations that they would soon be reflected in employees’ earnings. However, despite repeated assurances, many eligible workers say they are yet to receive the additional payments.
The workers argued that the prolonged delay has created uncertainty and affected staff morale across several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Calls for Immediate Government Intervention
Civil servants are now calling on the Federal Government to urgently address both the salary delay and the implementation of the approved peculiar allowances.
They specifically appealed to the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, and other relevant government institutions to expedite payment and provide clear information regarding the situation.
According to the workers, prompt payment of salaries is essential for maintaining productivity and ensuring the welfare of public servants who play critical roles in delivering government services across the country.
They also stressed that transparent communication from the relevant authorities would help reduce anxiety among workers and prevent the spread of speculation.
Economic Hardship Deepens the Impact
The delay comes amid continued economic pressures facing Nigerian households. With the cost of living remaining high, many workers say delayed salary payments significantly worsen their financial situation.
Labour observers note that timely payment of salaries remains one of the key responsibilities of any employer, particularly the government, whose workforce depends on regular income to support their families and contribute to the economy.
Workers believe that implementing the approved peculiar allowances alongside prompt salary payments would provide some relief and improve morale across the federal civil service.
Awaiting Official Response
As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the relevant government authorities explaining the reason for the delay in the payment of June salaries or providing a timeline for disbursement.
Federal workers across Nigeria remain hopeful that the outstanding salaries will be paid without further delay and that the approved peculiar allowances will soon be implemented.
Many employees say they expect the government to honour its commitments, strengthen confidence within the public service, and prioritise the welfare of its workforce through timely salary payments and effective implementation of approved benefits.
Im interested