A report indicates that federal civil servants’ salaries in 12 government ministries, departments, and agencies could face delays from October to December 2024. This development is linked to the depletion of funds allocated for personnel costs, stemming from the recent implementation of the new minimum wage.
A memo shared with employees of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) disclosed the issue. The communication, issued by the Director of Finance on behalf of the Director-General, Jack Odeh, on October 22, 2024, was titled “Notice of Delay in October 2024 Salary.” It explained that the delay was due to the disbursement of the 40 percent CONPSS Peculiar Allowance, which had not been included in the 2024 budget.
The document further noted that personnel expenses from October to December 2024 would need to be covered by the Service Wide Vote, resulting in slight delays in salary payments.
Bawa Mokwa, the Director of Press at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, confirmed that the issue was limited to 12 MDAs but did not specify which ones were impacted.
The notice stated: “Following the Federal Government’s implementation of the minimum wage in September 2024 and the exclusion of the 40 percent CONPSS Peculiar Allowance from the 2024 budget, VON’s allocated personnel budget has been exhausted.
“Consequently, from October to December 2024, VON’s personnel expenses will need to be supplemented by the Service Wide Vote. We regret to inform all staff and management that this will result in slight delays in salary payments for this period.
“This delay is due to the ongoing augmentation process, which requires approvals from relevant authorities for VON and other affected MDAs. Please be informed accordingly.”
Reports from The PUNCH indicate that employees have confirmed the situation, noting that a circular was shared earlier, informing them of potential delays in salary payments for the next three months.
One employee stated, “Yes, we are affected. We received a circular saying that salaries for October, November, and December will be delayed, but there was no concrete explanation provided.”
Another staff member from the News Agency of Nigeria affirmed the issue, mentioning that while some payments had started, others were still pending.
“I haven’t received my salary, but colleagues told me that payments have started. The delay was noticeable, but some have begun receiving their salaries. My colleague also mentioned that the new minimum wage has not been fully implemented. The situation has been inconsistent since this administration took office, unlike previous ones,” the staff member said.
Addressing the matter, Bawa assured that the problem had been resolved and that affected civil servants would start receiving their salaries immediately.
He stated, “The issue has been addressed. Salaries will be disbursed to affected civil servants starting today. If any ministry hasn’t received payment yet, they will receive it soon. I estimate that no more than 12 MDAs are affected.”
He also denied reports that the delays would persist until the end of the year, emphasizing, “No, this will not last until the end of the year. We have resolved the matter.”
