FG to Settle 20-Year Backlog of Workers' Entitlements in Nigeria

• The Federal Government has initiated a final verification exercise to settle outstanding claims of workers' entitlements.
• More than 99 per cent of cases brought against the government over unpaid entitlements have been resolved.
• Affected workers are urged to come forward and submit their complaints for verification, as no disengaged staff member who did not receive their full entitlements will be left unpaid.

The Federal Government has initiated a final verification exercise to settle outstanding claims of workers' entitlements. The exercise, which is the culmination of efforts to resolve long-standing issues, aims to identify genuine claims and ensure that those entitled to payment receive what is due to them. Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR), Dasuki Arabi, stated that no disengaged staff member who did not receive their full entitlements will be left unpaid. The BPSR is working with various agencies, including the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation and anti-corruption agencies, to verify records and ensure only genuine beneficiaries are paid.

The verification exercise is a significant development in addressing the 20-year backlog of workers' entitlements. According to Arabi, more than 99 per cent of cases brought against the government over unpaid entitlements have been resolved. The BPSR helmsman emphasized that the exercise is aimed at bringing an end to this matter and ensuring that everyone who works and is entitled to payment receives their full entitlement. This initiative highlights the importance of addressing long-standing issues in labor law and ensuring that workers' rights are protected.

The settlement of outstanding claims will have a significant impact on affected workers, many of whom have been waiting for decades to receive their rightful entitlements. Chairman of Retirees, Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi, Mr Yusuf Adamu, highlighted the plight of some former workers who served for about 22 years and are now seeking a review of their pensions. The government's initiative demonstrates its commitment to addressing labor law issues and ensuring that workers' rights are protected. Lawyers advising clients on unpaid entitlements should note this development and encourage affected individuals to come forward and submit their complaints for verification.

Lawyers advising clients on unpaid entitlements should note that the Federal Government has initiated a final verification exercise to settle outstanding claims, and those who have not been paid or were underpaid are urged to come forward and submit their complaints for verification.

Source: Original reporting via Punch Nigeria