Amanze Chinonye
Government activities across Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) were paralysed on Monday as workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) commenced an indefinite strike over unpaid wages, promotions and other unresolved welfare issues.
The strike, declared by the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), led to the closure of the FCTA Secretariat, FCDA offices, area councils and related agencies, effectively grounding administrative services in the nation’s capital. Members of the public were seen turning back from government buildings after finding offices locked, while security personnel restricted access at key locations.
Union leaders said the action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to management earlier this month, which they claim was ignored. Among the workers’ demands are the payment of promotion arrears, completion of an outstanding five-month wage award of which only one month has reportedly been paid, and the remittance of pension contributions and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions, allegedly outstanding since May 2025.
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The unions also raised concerns over a 2024 promotion exercise, describing it as flawed due to technical glitches during examinations that reportedly resulted in mass failures among candidates.
JUAC Vice-President Musa Istifanus said repeated efforts to engage management yielded no results, adding that even attempts at intervention by senior officials were unsuccessful. According to him, the unions have enforced a directive tagged “Code: Remain at Home,” supported by task forces to ensure compliance, amid heightened security around government facilities.
As of Monday, FCTA and FCDA management had not issued an official response to the industrial action.
Observers warn that a prolonged strike could disrupt essential services, delay urban planning and project supervision, and further strain public service delivery in the Federal Capital Territory.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
