Workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have announced plans to halt government operations across Abuja and its area councils, starting Monday, January 19, 2026.
The move, directed by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), requires all FCTA staff to withdraw their services in protest against what the unions described as the administration’s failure to address long-standing labour and welfare concerns.
JUAC’s Public Relations Officer, Holina Adejoh, confirmed the strike, saying, “Yes, we are embarking on a strike on Monday.” The action is expected to affect all FCTA secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils, and parastatals, effectively grounding government activities in the territory.
Dip Connect Online News gathered that the strike follows the expiry of a seven-day ultimatum issued to FCTA management, which passed without response despite multiple meetings. The ultimatum, effective from January 7, 2026, was outlined in a statement dated January 8 and signed by JUAC President Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Abdullahi Saleh. Copies were also sent to the Minister of State for the FCT, the Chief of Staff, the Head of Service, and the Director of Security Services.
The unions listed unresolved issues prompting the strike, including outstanding promotion arrears, stalled promotions, continued extension of service for retired directors and permanent secretaries, and alleged failure to remit workers’ pension contributions and National Housing Fund deductions.
JUAC also expressed concerns over the 2024 promotion examinations, describing the process as a failure that negatively affected most of its candidates.
Elijah Adeyemi
