August 31, 2025 – NPower beneficiaries have announced a 21 to 30 days grace period for the federal government to begin the payment of their outstanding stipends, stressing that any further delay will lead to legal action.
In a statement, one of the beneficiaries, Adeshina Adex, clarified that the public should note that there is no nationally recognised office for NPower ever inaugurated by the federal government. According to him, those claiming to represent the scheme are only self-made representatives.
He explained that the latest decision followed a legal briefing with their lawyer, Barrister Abba Hikima Fagge, who shed light on the budgetary classification of the funds.
“I had a phone conversation with our lawyer, Barrister Abba Hikima Fagge, during which he carefully explained the difference between recurrent and capital expenditure in relation to the budget. He clarified that the funds meant for the payment of N-Power stipends are categorised under capital expenditure since they are considered inherited debts. This, according to him, is the primary reason for the delay in payments,” Adeshina said.
Barrister Fagge also assured the beneficiaries of his readiness to pursue legal action if necessary. “As our legal representative, he is fully prepared to return to court with us at any time of our choice, particularly if the Government fails to fulfil its promises this month,” the statement added.
The beneficiaries maintained that if the payment process is not initiated by September as promised, they will return to court on October 1 without hesitation.
“On this note, we are giving those responsible for managing and disbursing our outstanding ₦81 billion naira a grace period of 30 days to commence payment or face us in court on October 1. Let the countdown begin,” the statement concluded.
The statement was signed by the Office of the National Publicity Secretary and Director of Strategic Communications.