Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) have commenced an indefinite strike in Abuja following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued by labour unions.
The industrial action, which began on Monday, is linked to unresolved welfare concerns, including five
months of unpaid wage awards, delayed promotions, and non-remittance of pension contributions
dating back to May 2025. Workers are also protesting other outstanding entitlements they say have
negatively affected staff morale and productivity.
The Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC) said the decision to down tools followed what it described
as the failure of management to engage meaningfully with union representatives. Speaking on the
situation, JUAC Vice President Musa Istifanus accused the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, of declining
to meet with the unions, warning that the continued standoff could lead to a “total collapse of workers’
welfare” within the FCT civil service.
In response, the FCTA acknowledged the ongoing negotiations and stated that 10 out of the 14
demands raised by the unions have either been met or are currently being addressed. The
administration noted that payment of wage awards has commenced and that arrears related to 2023
promotions have been approved, while discussions continue on the remaining issues.
Authorities have urged union leaders to embrace dialogue as talks remain ongoing, expressing optimism
that the dispute can be resolved without prolonged disruption to public services in the nation’s capital.
The strike comes amid broader concerns over public sector welfare and labour relations across the
country, with unions increasingly demanding timely payment of entitlements in the face of rising living
costs. Source: Updates shared by labour unions and the Federal Capital Territory Administration via X
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