By Charles Maduka
Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration have announced plans to commence an indefinite strike from Monday, January 19TH, 2026, following unresolved labour and welfare issues with the authorities. The decision was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress, which directed workers across all cadres in the territory to withdraw their services after what it described as the failure of the administration to address long-standing concerns.
The union said the planned industrial action would affect all secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils and parastatals under the FCTA, a move expected to bring government activities within the Federal Capital Territory to a standstill. It explained that the decision followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum earlier issued to the management of the FCTA, which it said was ignored despite several engagements during the period.
According to the union, the ultimatum took effect earlier in the month and was formally communicated in a statement signed by its leadership. JUAC said its demands include the payment of outstanding promotion arrears, implementation of stalled promotions, and the continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries, which it described as unfair to serving officers.
The union also accused the administration of failing to remit workers’ pension contributions and National Housing Fund deductions, raising concerns over the long-term welfare and security of affected employees. It further expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the most recent promotion examinations, alleging that the exercise failed to favour a large number of its members.
JUAC said the strike action became inevitable after all efforts to secure commitments from the authorities yielded no results. It urged workers to comply fully with the directive, insisting that the action would continue until concrete steps are taken to address the issues raised and restore confidence in the welfare system of FCT workers.
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