News
FG releases N152bn to contractors for verified projects following protests
The federal government says it has released N152 billion to contractors for what it described as “verified contracts.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, Doris Uzoka-Anite, the minister of state for finance, said the payments were made after strict verification processes, in line with existing laws and regulations.
Uzoka-Anite said the federal ministry of finance is aware of the financial strain contractors have faced due to delays in payment, adding that the government understands the pressure this situation has created for them.
The minister assured the contractors that the ministry will continue to process all payment requests.
“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.”
BACKGROUND
Since 2025, local contractors have been protesting debt backlog for projects executed for the federal government.
The protesters, under the aegis of the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN), blocked the gates of the ministry of finance and the national assembly complex to press home their demands.
In December 2025, President Bola Tinubu set up a multi-ministerial committee to resolve the saga, with outstanding payments at about N1.5 trillion.
The committee members are Wale Edun, minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy; Atiku Bagudu, minister of budget and economic planning; Tanimu Yakubu, director-general of the budget office; Dave Umahi, minister of works; Ahmed Dangiwa, minister of housing and urban development; and Zacch Adedeji, chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
A senate committee had also invited Edun to shed more light on the circumstances behind the payment delay.
On Monday, the protest took a new turn when the contractors blocked the gate of the federal ministry of finance.
They had prevented Uzoka-Anite from accessing the finance ministry complex — a development that led to a scuffle between security operatives attached to the minister and the protesters.
Amid the chaos, a gunshot was heard as security personnel attempted to disperse the demonstrators.
Follow Us on Google Discover
Man detained, charged with treasonable felony for destroying Tinubu’s billboards in Katsina
2027: Release our leader or forget our votes – Miyetti Allah tells Tinubu, APC
Drama as APC crowd chants ‘Sai Atiku’ during Tinubu solidarity walk in Zamfara
2027: Tinubu’ll win 25% in every Northern state, Atiku won’t get 10% in many Southern states — Wike
Trump appoints Atiku’s US lobbyist, Karl Von Batten, to White House commission amid push for Tinubu’s records
Awujale Stool: Court cautions parties against interference
2027: NDC rejects 10 Anambra candidates, seeks INEC portal audit
World Bank moves to support electricity reforms in Nigeria
NIS repatriates 99 foreigners over irregular migration
Fear grips Sokoto community as bandits threaten fresh attack, demand N40m levy
Abuja Police rescue 4-year-old girl from suspected traffickers
Workers write FG, seek N300,000 minimum wage
Army foils kidnap attempt, rescues retired general’s wife in Abuja
French authorities arrest teen over alleged plot to abduct Kylian Mbappe
Fury blasts Joshua, calls him ‘Coward’ as blockbuster fight delays
NAF opens 2026 recruitment for tradesmen, non-tradesmen
I think about Tinubu’s re-election everyday, if he loses, Atiku, Obi will deal with me – Wike
2027: I will review NELFUND, offer debt forgiveness to Nigerian students – Atiku vows
‘Why can’t Nigerians buy petrol for N441-N872 per litre like, UAE, Angola Sudi Arabia, others’ – Atiku questions Tinubu
Don’t discuss Atiku’s NYSC certificate case against Tinubu in public – Judge warns lawyers
Yuguda warns Nigerians against Atiku’s promise to restore fuel subsidy, says its a political bait
On LG Autonomy: I will send funds directly to LGs from Day 1 in office – Atiku vows
2027: APC chieftain resigns, rejects support for Tinubu, Bauchi Governorship candidate
North, biggest beneficiary of my reforms — Tinubu, Arewa Forum, others disagree
Tinubu’s effort to secure Trump’s support for re-election has failed – Atiku’s lobbying firm claim
Nollywood hit by another loss as Atinuke Kareem dies after prolonged cancer battle
Strong GDP, Reserves don’t put food on Nigerians’ tables – APC Chairman
2027: Major Jack picked as Chinda’s running mate in Rivers
2027: Gawuna’s camp romances APC despite being given Kano NDC Senatorial ticket
