The All Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria (AICAN) has accused the Federal Government of subjecting its members to economic hardship by failing to pay for completed 2024 capital projects valued at over ₦760 billion.
The group warned that it would begin peaceful demonstrations across Abuja if the outstanding payments were not settled before the end of the week.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, AICAN National President, Jackson Ifeanyi, said the delay in payment had pushed many indigenous contractors into bankruptcy after borrowing funds to execute government projects based on promises of prompt settlement.
According to him, despite the projects being completed and publicly commissioned, the government had refused to honour its contractual obligations.
“Unless all outstanding payments are made before the end of this month, we shall embark on continuous peaceful demonstrations across the Federal Capital Territory to expose this injustice,” he declared.
Ifeanyi further alleged that a warrant for the ₦760 billion payment was issued two months ago but was yet to receive cash backing from the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation.
He described the situation as “a grave injustice” that has crippled local businesses and destroyed livelihoods.
The AICAN president also faulted government officials for allegedly prioritising projects that serve their personal interests while sidelining indigenous contractors. He called on the media, civil society groups, and international partners to stand in solidarity with local contractors demanding transparency and accountability in project financing.
He expressed disappointment that the National Assembly and other oversight bodies had “turned a blind eye” to the plight of indigenous contractors, despite being aware of the situation.
AICAN’s Vice President, Fredrick Agada, added that while foreign contractors are being paid promptly, local firms are left to “die in penury.”
He warned that members would boycott participation in any 2025 capital or recurrent projects unless mobilisation funds are released upfront.