Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has voiced strong concerns regarding the non-payment of contractors for completed projects across Nigeria.

Obi shared his thoughts on 𝕏 on Thursday. He questioned why the Federal Government has failed to settle these contractor bills. This query comes despite President Bola Tinubu’s public statement that Nigeria has “met and surpassed” its revenue target for the year.

Impact on Small and Medium Enterprises

Obi highlighted that many affected contractors are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These businesses are vital to regional economies. They depend heavily on timely government payments to remain operational.

He argued that government payment failures have severe consequences. Workers often lose their jobs. Families then face significant hardship.

Obi stated, “We have recently seen concerning images and reports. Local contractors are protesting across Abuja and other parts of the country. They demand payment for work already completed.”

He continued, “Most of these contractors are small and medium-sized businesses. They are essential to the economy in various regions. These are ordinary Nigerians who have delivered vital public services. They expected the government to honour its commitments.”

Questioning Revenue Claims and Transparency

Obi found the situation particularly troubling. It arises after President Tinubu announced in August that Nigeria “met and surpassed its revenue target for the year.”

“With such an impressive record, one would expect increased investment in the economy,” Obi noted. He added, “Specifically in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation programs. Yet, the government has still failed to pay contractors.”

“A responsible government cannot claim record revenue. It cannot simultaneously leave thousands of contractors unpaid,” Obi asserted. He believes this contradiction “highlights deeper issues. These relate to transparency in our public finance management and governance.”

Economic Ripples and Call for Accountability

Obi explained the broader economic fallout. “When a government fails to pay contractors, the consequences ripple through the entire economy.”

He detailed these effects: “Medium and small businesses shut down. Workers lose their jobs. Families experience hardship. The nation loses its productive capacity.”

“We cannot build a strong economy when public funds are mismanaged. Obligations are ignored. Local businesses are treated as expendable,” Obi declared. “If our revenue has indeed increased, it should reflect. This means timely payments of obligations. It means growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It also means reduced borrowing.”

Obi concluded with a powerful statement. “Meeting our obligations to contractors is not optional. It is a test of honesty, competence, and true leadership.”

He added, “A government that cannot fulfil its commitments cannot be trusted to build a nation. As leaders, we must honour our obligations. We must manage resources with discipline. We must create an economy that works for the people. This is how a nation rises.”