Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have announced plans to shut down offices across Abuja and its six area councils as they commence an indefinite strike on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The decision was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC) which directed workers across all cadres within the FCT to withdraw their services over what it described as the failure of authorities to address long-standing labour and welfare issues.
The unions’ Public Relations Officer, Holina Adejoh, who confirmed the development on Friday, said the strike would proceed as scheduled.
“Yes, we are embarking on a strike on Monday,” she stated.
The industrial action is expected to affect all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals, effectively grounding government activities within the territory.
JUAC said the decision followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management, which reportedly elapsed without any concrete response despite a series of meetings held within the period.
The ultimatum, which took effect from January 7, 2026, was contained in a statement dated January 8 and jointly signed by JUAC President, Rifkatu Iortyer, and Secretary, Abdullahi Saleh.
Copies of the notice were forwarded to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.
According to the unions, unresolved issues include outstanding promotion arrears, stalled promotions, and the continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries.
They also accused the administration of failing to remit workers’ pension contributions and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions.
JUAC further expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the exercise as a failure that allegedly affected most of its candidates.
As of the time of press, the FCTA management has yet to address the development.
COURTESY: TheWhistler
