Civil servants employed by the Federal Government are bracing for subdued Christmas celebrations due to delays in the payment of their December 2024 salaries.
Reports indicate that federal workers experienced salary delays in November 2024 as well, with many receiving their payments only in the second week of December.
Sources within the civil service suggest that the delays stem from issues at the Accountant General’s office, compounded by a transition to a new payment platform.
During a recent visit to the Federal Secretariat, civil servants expressed their frustration over the ongoing salary delays. One worker, who chose to remain anonymous, noted, “Honestly, I won’t be traveling for the holidays this year due to financial constraints. Our November salaries were delayed, leaving many of us in debt. We hoped for better this December, but the situation has worsened.”
Another civil servant echoed similar sentiments, saying, “This new delay isn’t surprising given the November salary issues. Despite planning ahead, the rising costs of food and clothing for my children remain challenging. Timely December payment would greatly help.”
An Assistant Director from one of the MDAs expressed concern, stating, “This ongoing delay is unacceptable, especially during the festive season. Many of us can’t afford basic necessities like meat, let alone chicken for family gatherings. The government needs to prioritize our welfare.”
In response, the Federal Government attributed the salary delays to budget shortfalls experienced by certain ministries and agencies. The Director of Press and Public Relations at the Accountant-General’s office confirmed that payments began on Monday and that corrective measures have been implemented.
“Payments started yesterday,” he confirmed, also acknowledging last month’s delays due to budget constraints affecting various ministries. “However, all salaries have now been processed, including those previously curtailed, depending on the banks for confirmation.”
The Accountant General clarified that the implementation of the new minimum wage has impacted salary allocations for some ministries, further complicating the financial landscape for civil servants.
Despite the recent delays, it was reported that civil servants have been compensated from previous shortfalls. The government aims to address the concerns raised by workers regarding timely payments.
Following the increase in the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 approved by President Bola Tinubu, there have been significant budgetary adjustments. The 2025 budget allocates N845.28 billion specifically for minimum wage-related adjustments, reflecting the administration’s commitment to improving civil service compensation.
In light of these developments, there appears to be a growing concern regarding the government’s ability to meet its financial obligations to civil servants while balancing the broader economic challenges facing the nation.
