FCTA, FCDA workers shut down offices

Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) commenced a strike on Monday, bringing government activities across Abuja to a halt.

Our correspondent observed a heavy security presence at the FCTA Secretariat at 8:10 a.m., with personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Police Force stationed at the entrance to prevent workers from entering the premises. The strike affects all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals.

The industrial action follows an announcement by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) on Friday, directing all FCT workers to withdraw their services due to the government’s alleged failure to address long-standing labour and welfare demands.

The strike comes after the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management on January 7, 2026, which the unions say was ignored despite multiple meetings.

The ultimatum, detailed in a statement signed by JUAC President Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Comrade Abdullahi Saleh, was also forwarded to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.

Among the unresolved issues are outstanding promotion arrears, stalled promotions, the continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries, and unremitted pension and National Housing Fund contributions.

The unions also criticized the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the process as flawed and detrimental to most candidates.

A security officer at the FCTA Secretariat, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Staff of FCDA and FCTA are not allowed into the office premises because of the strike.”

The unions have not indicated how long the strike will last, but the action is expected to disrupt government operations throughout the FCT until a resolution is reached.