The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced a peaceful solidarity rally on February 3 to support Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) workers who are currently on strike.
The unions made the announcement in a joint statement signed by NLC General Secretary Benson Upah and TUC Secretary General Nuhu Toro in Abuja. The rally is in backing of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), which is leading an indefinite strike over unpaid salaries.
JUAC members began the strike on January 19, shutting down key administrative offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA, following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on January 7 demanding the resolution of long-standing labour and welfare grievances.
“The action will send a clear message that labour will resist all forms of intimidation and injustice against workers,” the unions said, stressing that the struggle is legitimate, non-negotiable, and will continue until justice is achieved.
The rally is intended to demonstrate labour’s collective solidarity, reaffirming that “an injury to one worker remains an injury to all” within the Nigerian labour movement.
The NLC and TUC called on JUAC members to remain united, courageous, and steadfast in defending their rights, emphasizing that workers’ rights are won through collective struggle, not granted.
Union affiliates and state councils have been directed to mobilise members for the rally, with assurances that it will be lawful and peaceful.
The unions warned that intimidation or repression would not weaken workers’ resolve and reiterated their commitment to supporting FCDA workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
They also highlighted that labour’s support for JUAC members remains total and unwavering, aiming to pressure the FCDA management to address outstanding salary and welfare issues.
The planned rally marks a continuation of the Nigerian labour movement’s efforts to ensure workers’ rights and protections are respected.