Lawmakers signal imminent payments as Federal Government prepares contractor debt relief this week. Notably, contractors may soon receive partial payments for executed 2024 capital projects. The government allocated N1.8 trillion in the 2026 Appropriation Bill for liabilities.
Specifically, N1.7 trillion targets 2024 projects, while N100 billion covers other contractor debts. Meanwhile, lawmakers expressed cautious optimism but withheld exact disbursement figures. However, they expect payments to commence soon after prolonged delays. This development follows rising pressure over unpaid verified debts to indigenous contractors.
Consequently, many contractors face severe financial strain after completing nationwide projects. Sada Soli confirmed awareness of planned payments but lacked implementation details. Similarly, Ikenga Ugochinyere highlighted delays affecting constituency projects and public trust. He noted lawmakers face criticism due to incomplete yet executed projects.
Therefore, expected payments could restore confidence and accelerate development efforts. Terseer Ugbor also expressed frustration over repeated unfulfilled government assurances. Nevertheless, he remains hopeful that payments will begin soon. Additionally, unnamed lawmakers hinted that partial funds may be released this Friday. Still, uncertainty surrounds the exact amounts and disbursement structure.
Importantly, the crisis began during the 2024 budget cycle. Contractors executed projects but struggled to receive payments afterward. Furthermore, repeated assurances throughout 2025 failed to deliver actual disbursements. As a result, projects stalled and financial pressures intensified across sectors. Eventually, frustrated contractors protested at the National Assembly Complex. They accused the government of neglecting local businesses and worsening economic hardship.
