The Divisional Executive Council of the Public Services Workers’ Union (PSWU) representing staff of the National Identification Authority (NIA) has declared an indefinite strike beginning Tuesday, June 24, 2025, in protest over the government’s failure to honour a key financial commitment.
In a statement released Monday, June 23, the union described the decision as “difficult yet necessary,” citing the Ministry of Finance’s persistent failure to offer any clear commitment or timeline for paying the Operational Support Allowance, the only financial supplement to the basic salaries of NIA workers.
“This allowance was the outcome of extensive negotiations concluded in July 2024 between the Government of Ghana’s team, comprising the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and the Ministry of Finance, and representatives of the Union,” the statement read.
The union noted that although payments began in August 2024 and continued through December, they abruptly ceased in January 2025 without explanation.
”Throughout this period, staff have exercised considerable patience and restraint, largely out of respect for assurances from NIA Management, who communicated that tireless efforts were being made to resolve the matter and resume payments.”
Despite multiple follow-ups, the union said its members’ attempts to engage the Ministry of Finance in good faith have been met with silence and a lack of urgency, deepening frustration among workers.
“This industrial action is not taken lightly. It reflects the deep frustration of staff who have endured this situation for far too long amidst persistent neglect. Consequently, all PSWU members at the NIA are directed to withdraw their services indefinitely, starting Tuesday, June 24, 2025, until our legitimate concerns are addressed and outstanding payments resumed.”
The union stressed that the strike is a last resort and expressed willingness to return to the table, provided that future discussions result in tangible action.
“We urge all members to remain united, peaceful, and law-abiding throughout this period. The Union remains open to constructive dialogue, provided such discussions lead to prompt and full payment of the Operational Support Allowance as negotiated, agreed and signed,” the statement concluded.
The strike is expected to severely impact operations at the NIA, which plays a critical role in national identification and documentation.
Read the full statement below;
