Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA on Monday commenced an industrial action, shutting down government activities across Abuja.
A visit to the FCTA Secretariat around 8:10 a.m. showed a heavy security presence at the main entrance, with operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Nigeria Police Force manning the gate and preventing workers from accessing the premises.
The strike is expected to disrupt operations across all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils and parastatals, effectively grounding official activities within the Federal Capital Territory.
A security official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that staff members were barred from entering the offices due to the ongoing strike.
The industrial action followed an earlier notice issued by workers on Friday, declaring their intention to shut down government offices across the FCT and its area councils.
The decision was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which directed workers at all levels to withdraw their services, citing what it described as the authorities’ failure to address long-standing labour and welfare issues.
According to the unions, the action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management, which they said elapsed without a response despite several meetings.
The ultimatum, which took effect on January 7, 2026, was contained in a statement dated January 8 and signed by the JUAC President, Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer, and the Secretary, Comrade Abdullahi Saleh. Copies were forwarded to key FCT officials, including the Minister of State and the Head of Service.
Unresolved issues listed by the unions include unpaid promotion arrears, stalled promotions, continued service extensions for retired directors and permanent secretaries, and the alleged non-remittance of pension and National Housing Fund deductions.
JUAC also raised concerns over the conduct of the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the exercise as flawed and detrimental to many of its members.