Federal civil servants nationwide are expressing discontent over the prolonged delay in receiving their December 2023 salaries, leaving them in financial distress during the Christmas season. The delay has disrupted traditional celebrations for many, impacting families, particularly those without savings.
Workers in federal ministries, the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHoCSF), and the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) were caught off guard by the unexpected situation. The issue extends to federal universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, and associated institutions across the country.
Notably, only employees in revenue-generating agencies such as NNPC, NPA, NIMASA, NCC, CBN, and FIRS, among others, received their December salaries on time. Distressed civil servants, in interviews with Daily Trust, expressed frustration at the government’s failure to disburse salaries, especially during the festive season.
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Despite previous administrations’ shortcomings, this delay in December salaries stands out as unprecedented, with workers citing financial hardships exacerbated by the country’s challenging economic conditions. The 50% transportation discount, announced as a relief, proved futile as the lack of funds hindered many from traveling for Christmas.
Some workers voiced concerns about the negative impact on their celebrations and the upcoming school term in January. A University of Abuja lecturer criticized the administration, emphasizing the fundamental expectation that civil servants should receive their salaries on time.
Expressing disappointment, another lecturer condemned the government’s failure to prioritize salary payments, considering the removal of subsidies and claimed savings. The delay has cast a shadow over Christmas celebrations, prompting calls for explanations and a return to past practices where workers received additional benefits at the year’s end.
A teacher from the Federal Government Girls College, Bajoga, Gombe State, described a subdued Christmas due to the delay in salary payment. Despite managing to provide a chicken for the children, the teacher urged authorities to expedite payments for a brighter New Year.
When approached for comments, the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHoCSF) stated they were not responsible for salary payments, while the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation assured ongoing processes and imminent salary disbursement. A top government official attributed the delay to a technical glitch, assuring that salaries would be processed before the end of the day (Monday).
