Lawmakers hint at possible payments for government contractors
Members of the House of Representatives have indicated that contractors owed for capital projects may soon receive partial payments. The Federal Government has earmarked N1.8tn in the 2026 Appropriation Bill to address outstanding debts to contractors, with N1.7tn allocated for 2024 projects and N100bn for other local debts. Lawmakers expressed cautious optimism about the long-awaited payments but did not specify the exact amount to be released. The delay in payments has led to financial strain for contractors and mounting pressure on both lawmakers and government agencies.
What we know
- The Federal Government included N1.8tn in the 2026 Appropriation Bill to settle contractor debts, with N1.7tn for 2024 capital projects and N100bn for other local debts.
- Sada Soli, leader of the North-West caucus, confirmed awareness of imminent payments but said details remain unclear.
- Ikenga Ugochinyere highlighted that delayed payments have affected constituency projects and lawmakers’ credibility.
- Terseer Ugbor expressed frustration over repeated unfulfilled promises regarding the payments.
- Protests by aggrieved contractors took place in December 2025 and January 2026 at the National Assembly Complex, demanding payment for completed projects.
