Contractors protest, demand payment of debts

Contractors under the All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) on Tuesday blocked the main entrance to the Ministry of Finance, demanding immediate payment of billions allegedly owed by the federal government. Protesters, who arrived with their families, first gathered at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before marching to the Finance Ministry, accusing the Tinubu administration of attempting to push their payments to 2026—a move they described as unacceptable. Addressing journalists, an AICAN executive, Innocent Asuelimen, said members are facing intense pressure from banks, with some losing property. “This has brought poverty to our people. We have lost members and our investments,” he said, accusing the ministry of repeatedly making unfulfilled promises. The group began protesting in August, continued until September 4, and later met with senior government officials, who promised payment. “We only see warrants—no cash backing,” he said. AICAN secretary-general, Babatunde Seun Oyeniyi, said their discussions with the Minister of Finance have yielded no tangible results. He said the government earlier told them N150 billion was available for contractor payments, but no disbursement has been made. He warned that unless the minister addresses the protesters, they will continue indefinitely, insisting the government plans to push their payments into a backlog extending to 2026.

Nigerians can now invest ₦2.5 million on premium domains and profit about ₦17-₦25 million. All earnings paid in US Dollars. Rather than wonder, click here to find out how it works.

Join Daily Trust WhatsApp Community For Quick Access To News and Happenings Around You.