The Federal Government has stepped up efforts to resolve its long-standing dispute with indigenous contractors, pledging a transparent and structured approach to settling outstanding obligations as part of its broader economic reform agenda.
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, gave the assurance during a high-level meeting with representatives of the All-Indigenous Contractors Association of Nigeria in Abuja on Monday.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, Efe Ovuakporie, the meeting was convened to address the prolonged impasse between the government and local service providers over delayed payments tied to capital projects.
Discussions at the meeting focused on outstanding liabilities, with both parties emphasising the need for clarity, accountability, and the establishment of a credible framework to verify and settle claims.
Oyedele said the government would balance its fiscal constraints with the obligation to honour legitimate debts, noting that resolving the issue was critical to restoring confidence in public finance management.
“Resolving these obligations is important not just for contractors, but for confidence in government, job creation, business continuity, and overall economic stability,” the minister said.
He acknowledged concerns raised by contractors, including delayed payments, contract variations, and the impact of ongoing fiscal reforms on project execution.
The minister added that the government was working with relevant agencies to reconcile outstanding claims and design a sustainable payment structure that reflects current fiscal realities.
While reaffirming the administration’s commitment to economic stabilisation, Oyedele said reforms would continue to be implemented with due consideration for stakeholders to minimise disruptions.
He stressed the importance of local contractors in driving infrastructure development and economic growth, assuring that all outstanding issues would be addressed through structured engagement anchored on fiscal responsibility.
Officials present at the meeting included the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, Mr. Raymond Omachi; Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Mr. Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma; the Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr. Shamseldeen Ogunjimi; as well as senior directors from the ministry and the Office of the Accountant-General.
Representatives of the contractors welcomed the dialogue, expressing optimism that the renewed engagement would lead to practical and lasting solutions. They also pledged continued cooperation with the government to ensure timely delivery of critical infrastructure projects nationwide.
