The Federal Government has confirmed the payment of N152 billion to contractors nationwide, describing the move as a strategic economic stimulus aimed at sustaining jobs and accelerating infrastructure delivery, even as civil society groups renewed protests in Abuja demanding transparency and accountability in public spending.

The confirmation, issued by the Federal Ministry of Finance, came amid growing public scrutiny over government expenditure against the backdrop of rising living costs and slow-paced infrastructure development in some parts of the country.

According to the ministry, the payments were made to contractors handling road construction, housing, water supply and other critical public projects, following verification of completed milestones by relevant ministries, departments and agencies.

The government said the disbursement was necessary to revive stalled projects, prevent cost escalation and inject liquidity into the construction sector, which employs thousands of Nigerians directly and indirectly.

“Clearing verified contractor obligations is essential to maintaining economic stability, preserving jobs and ensuring timely delivery of public infrastructure,” the ministry said.

Economic analysts note that infrastructure spending has a ripple effect across key sectors such as cement production, transportation and skilled labour, making it a significant driver of economic activity.

However, the announcement coincided with renewed protests in parts of Abuja, where civil society organisations and concerned citizens questioned the impact of such payments on citizens’ welfare.

Protesters, who gathered peacefully at strategic locations in the Federal Capital Territory, called for full disclosure of funded projects, including their locations, costs and current execution status.

“The issue is not payment alone, but whether Nigerians are getting value for money,” a civil society representative said.

In response, the Federal Government maintained that the payments followed due process and budgetary provisions, while reaffirming its commitment to transparency and engagement with stakeholders.

Observers say the development highlights the delicate balance between using public spending as an economic stimulus and meeting rising public demands for openness, accountability and measurable results.