Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) have commenced an indefinite strike, leading to the shutdown of government offices across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The industrial action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCTA authorities over unresolved labour and welfare issues.
The strike was directed by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which instructed employees at all levels of the FCT public service to withdraw their services after negotiations with management failed to yield any resolution.
In a statement jointly signed by the JUAC President, Ms. Rifkatu Iortyer, and the Secretary, Mr. Abdullahi Saleh, the unions said the decision to embark on the strike was taken after the administration ignored long-standing demands affecting workers’ welfare.
According to the unions, the ultimatum, which began on 7 January 2026, was formally communicated to the FCTA in a notice dated 8 January and copied to key officials, including the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.
JUAC stated that several meetings were held with management during the ultimatum period, but none produced concrete commitments or clear timelines for addressing the issues raised.
Among the grievances listed by the unions are unpaid promotion arrears, prolonged delays in staff promotions, and the continued extension of service for directors and permanent secretaries who are due for retirement.
The unions also accused the administration of failing to remit statutory deductions, including pension contributions and National Housing Fund payments, describing the situation as detrimental to workers’ future financial security.
In addition, JUAC raised concerns over the conduct of the 2024 promotion examinations, alleging that the process was poorly managed and unfair to many workers.
The unions said the strike would remain in force until their demands are fully addressed, warning that workers would no longer tolerate what they described as the persistent neglect of their welfare and career progression.
