FCT Workers to Begin Indefinite Strike on January 19 Over Welfare Concerns

Workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have announced plans to commence an indefinite strike from January 19, following unresolved labour and welfare issues with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The decision was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which has directed workers across all cadres to withdraw their services. The union cited the authorities’ failure to address long-standing demands despite repeated engagements.

The strike is expected to disrupt activities across all FCT secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils and parastatals, effectively halting government operations within the territory.

JUAC said the action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the FCTA, which began on January 7. According to the union, the ultimatum elapsed without meaningful response, despite several meetings held during the period.

In a statement dated January 8 and signed by JUAC President, Rifkatu Iortyer, and Secretary, Abdullahi Saleh, the congress listed key demands to include the payment of outstanding promotion arrears, implementation of delayed promotions, and an end to the continued service extension granted to retired directors and permanent secretaries.

The union also accused the administration of failing to remit workers’ pension contributions and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions.

Additionally, JUAC raised concerns over the conduct and outcome of the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the exercise as unsuccessful and alleging that it adversely affected a large number of its members.