Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have announced plans to down tools and shut government offices across Abuja and the area councils beginning Monday, January 19, 2026, over unresolved labour and welfare issues.
The decision was taken by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which directed workers across all cadres in the FCT public service to withdraw their services after what it described as the administration’s failure to address long-standing demands.
Confirming the development, JUAC Public Relations Officer Holina Adejoh said on Friday, “Yes, we are embarking on a strike on Monday.”
The industrial action is expected to affect all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals, effectively halting government activities within the territory.
The unions said the strike followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management, which reportedly drew no response despite several meetings.
The ultimatum, which took effect from January 7, 2026, was contained in a statement dated January 8 and signed by JUAC President Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Abdullahi Saleh. Copies were forwarded to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.
According to JUAC, unresolved issues include outstanding promotion arrears, stalled promotions, and the continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries.
The unions also alleged failure by the administration to remit pension contributions and National Housing Fund deductions, while raising concerns over the 2024 promotion examinations, which they described as a failed exercise that affected many candidates.
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