From Victor Osula, Abuja
Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) on Monday, January 19, 2026, commenced an indefinite strike, shutting down government offices across Abuja and its six area councils.
The industrial action, declared by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, on January 7.
The gates of the FCTA Secretariat were locked early in the day, denying access to workers and top government officials, including the Minister.
Secretariats, departments, agencies, and area councils were similarly shut, grounding public services across the nation’s capital.
Security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and the Civil Defence were seen stationed at the entrances as the union’s task force enforced compliance.
Speaking to journalists, JUAC Vice President Musa Istifanus accused the FCTA management of ignoring repeated attempts at engagement.
JUAC President, Mrs. Rifkatu Iortyer, added that the strike was prompted by unresolved welfare concerns, including the non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions, unpaid promotion arrears, and outstanding wage awards.
A major point of contention is the outcome of the 2024 promotion examinations, which the union described as a mass failure affecting over 77% of candidates.
The workers are demanding a reversal of the results, citing a defective examination process.
Other grievances include the elongation of tenure for retired directors and permanent secretaries, the centralization of salary payments, poor working conditions, alleged staff intimidation, and the non-payment of hazard and rural allowances to health workers.
“Our members will not resume until all our demands are fully met,” Istifanus stated.
While management reportedly invited the union for a meeting on Monday, the leadership declined to attend, insisting that key decision-makers must be present for any meaningful resolution.
The strike comes as Minister Nyesom Wike remains largely preoccupied with ongoing political developments in Rivers State.
As of press time, the FCTA has yet to issue an official response to the industrial action, which echoes a similar three-day warning strike held in June 2025 over the same unresolved issues.
