FG Contractors Begin Indefinite Protest at Finance Ministry Over Unpaid Projects

ABUJA/Nigeria: A coalition of federal contractors under the banner of Concerned Federal Government Contractors has launched an indefinite protest at the Office of the Accountant General and the Ministry of Finance Headquarters in Abuja, demanding immediate payment for certified projects completed since October 2024.

The protest, which began today, saw contractors occupying key entrances to both government offices, chanting solidarity songs and displaying placards accusing the government of negligence and economic sabotage.

Spokesman for the group, Kabir Tidjani, in a statement circulated to journalists and online news platforms, said the contractors have fulfilled all obligations under their contracts, many of which were financed through loans from banks and financial institutions. Yet, despite the completion and certification of the projects, no payments have been made in over seven months.

“While government officials continue to receive steady funding for recurrent expenditures, including foreign travels, luxury vehicles, and operational overheads, those of us who have delivered real infrastructure and service projects are left stranded,” Tidjani said.

According to him, many contractors are facing severe financial distress, with mounting debts, unpaid staff, and stalled operations due to the government’s failure to meet its financial obligations.

“We are here because we have no choice left,” he stated. “Our workers are hungry, our debts are mounting, and our businesses are being destroyed by the same government that promised development. The government must be more sensitive. We have done the work; it is time to pay us.”

He added that the protesting contractors have vowed to remain at the Accountant General’s Office and Ministry of Finance premises daily until payments are made.

“We are also calling on all other contractors and stakeholders who are being owed by the Federal Government to join us in this protest,” he said. “Together, we will ensure our voices are heard.”

Kabir emphasized that the protest will remain peaceful but resolute until the government responds by releasing funds for the outstanding capital projects, which he described as “critical to Nigeria’s economic development and national progress.”