ABUJA: The All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) has renewed its call on the Federal Government to settle outstanding payments for completed 2024 projects valued at over ₦760 billion.
AICAN President, Jackson Ifeanyi, expressed frustration over the delayed payments during a protest held by the group on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said the delay had caused severe economic hardship for members who executed government projects using borrowed funds.
“We are no longer able to endure this unfair treatment, which has left our members heavily indebted and financially crippled. We urge the government to prioritise payment for these projects and ensure transparency in contract financing,” Ifeanyi stated.
He warned that AICAN would continue to embark on nationwide protests if the payments were not made promptly.
The association’s Vice President, Fredrick Agada, accused the government of favouring foreign contractors over local firms, saying, “While foreign contractors are cashing out, our members are dying in penury.”
He said the delayed payments had pushed many indigenous contractors into financial ruin, bankruptcy, and even death.
“AICAN is calling on the government to take immediate action to resolve the issue and ensure that local contractors are treated fairly. The government has promised to settle the outstanding payments, with the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation stating that efforts are underway to pay for contracts duly awarded and completed according to specifications. However, AICAN remains sceptical, citing previous broken promises,” Agada said.
A group of lawyers also expressed solidarity with AICAN, describing the government’s failure to pay contractors as a breach of contract and a violation of their rights.
One of the lawyers, Aquila Akindo, said, “We as lawyers have joined AICAN in calling for the government to settle its debts to contractors. We stand in solidarity with AICAN and demand that the government pays its debts to contractors.”
In response to the protest, the Director of Sergeant-at-Arms of the National Assembly, retired Brigadier-General Etido Ekpo, emphasised the importance of dialogue and negotiation to resolve such issues.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by indigenous contractors and expressed understanding of their frustrations.
Ekpo appealed for calm and promised to invite AICAN representatives for discussions with relevant authorities.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting local contractors and addressing their concerns through established channels.
