Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) under the Concerned Nigeria People’s Network have issued a stern warning to the Federal Government over the non-payment of contractors for completed projects in 2024, demanding urgent action to address the issue. The CSOs have warned that if the government fails to act, they will launch nationwide protests to push for accountability.
The statement, co-signed by Comrade Alao Bamisile (President) and Abubakar Tijani (Secretary), highlights the dire consequences of the government’s failure to honor its obligations. Contractors, many of whom have not been paid for months, are facing severe financial hardship, job losses, and increased poverty. The CSOs point out that the construction industry, a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP, is on the brink of collapse as a result of the government’s inaction.
“The non-payment of contractors has caused financial hardship, uncertainty, and widespread job losses,” the statement reads. “The ripple effect is being felt across various sectors, as businesses struggle to stay afloat due to unpaid debts.”
The CSOs emphasize that this crisis is also damaging Nigeria’s economy, contributing to a decline in investor confidence and a slowdown in economic growth. They warn that the ongoing failure to pay contractors is leading to a fiscal crisis and further undermining trust in the government.
The CSOs are calling on President Bola Tinubu to prioritize the payment of outstanding debts and ensure the establishment of a transparent and efficient payment system to prevent future occurrences. They have also made it clear that a mass protest will be organized if their demands are not met.
“We will not stand idly by while contractors suffer. We will mobilize Nigerians from all walks of life to join us in protesting this injustice,” they stated. The group stressed that their collective action would serve as a crucial moment in the fight for accountability and good governance in Nigeria.
