Staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA), operating under the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) of the Trades Union Congress (TUC), have initiated an indefinite strike starting today, June 24, 2025. This action comes after persistent and unresolved issues regarding the payment of their Operational Support Allowance.
The decision was formalized in a statement issued on Monday, June 23, 2025, by the Divisional Executive Council of the Union, serving as a final warning to the Ministry of Finance regarding the delayed allowance payments.
Unfulfilled Commitments Trigger Strike
According to the Union, the strike became unavoidable due to the Ministry of Finance’s failure to provide a firm commitment and clear timelines for resuming the allowance payments.
The Operational Support Allowance was initially agreed upon in July 2024 after extensive negotiations involving the Ministry of Finance, the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, and the Union. Its purpose was to supplement the relatively low basic salaries of NIA staff. Payments commenced in August 2024 but were mysteriously discontinued in January 2025 without any explanation.
Months of Waiting and Frustration
Since January, Union members have continued working, holding onto assurances from NIA management that efforts were underway to reinstate the payments. Management even publicly reiterated these commitments at a press briefing on June 18, 2025, promising that the allowances would be paid “very, very soon.”
However, the Union states that despite months of waiting, follow-ups, and engagements, the Ministry of Finance has shown no urgency or seriousness in resolving the matter. This prolonged delay has reportedly caused severe financial and emotional strain on members across the NIA’s Head Office, Regional Offices, Premium Centres, and District Offices.
“This industrial action should not be taken lightly. It reflects the deep frustration of staff who have endured this situation for far too long amidst persistent neglect,” the statement emphasized.
Union Demands Full Payment Before Resumption
Consequently, the PSWU has directed all its members within the NIA to withdraw their services indefinitely until all outstanding allowances are fully paid. The Union has also urged its members to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the strike period.
While the Union has expressed its willingness to return to the negotiation table, it maintains that any dialogue must result in the prompt and full payment of their agreed allowances for services to resume.
