SUNTV Global Channel | January 9, 2026
Workers under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have issued a seven-day ultimatum to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, warning of possible strike action if long-standing labour and welfare issues are not resolved.
The notice, issued by the Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), FCT Administration, took effect on January 7, 2026, according to a statement dated January 8, signed by JUAC President Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer and Secretary Comrade Abdullahi Umar Saleh.
“A Seven-Day Ultimatum Notice has been duly issued and served on the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory over unresolved and long-standing labour issues affecting our members,” the statement read.
The notice was copied to key authorities, including the FCT Minister of State, Chief of Staff to the FCT Minister, Head of Service, and Director of Security Services, to ensure urgent attention to the grievances.
JUAC said the ultimatum followed repeated failures by management to address demands despite numerous engagements, correspondences, and appeals.
Major Grievances Highlighted
The unions outlined several pressing issues, including:
- Non-release of approved overhead costs for six months in 2025.
- Non-payment of five months’ wage award arrears.
- Defective promotion examinations with a pass rate of just 22.5%, described as demoralising to staff.
- Non-remittance of pension contributions since May 2025 and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions.
- Alleged intimidation and harassment of staff, restrictions on phone usage for FCT Geographic Information System (AGIS) employees, and non-payment of enforcement officers, street sweepers, and cleaners under AEPB and Satellite Development Services.
- Health workers owed 13 months’ hazard allowance and 22 months’ rural allowance.
- Lack of efficient transport system and housing schemes.
The unions also criticized the extension of tenure for retired directors and permanent secretaries, the presence of “overstayed overseeing directors,” and centralization of salary processing, which they say undermines effective administration.
“The refusal to observe financial autonomy and constituted thresholds has weakened the administration of the FCT,” JUAC stated.
The statement also protested the revocation of a garden allocated to JUAC in 2023 and the failure to upgrade the FCDA information office into a full department.
JUAC confirmed the ultimatum was issued in line with labour laws and industrial relations procedures, directing all affiliate unions to sensitize members and remain on high alert.
“All affiliate unions are hereby directed to remain on high alert and prepare for further directives should there be no positive response at the expiration of the ultimatum period,” the statement warned.
The labour body urged workers to remain united, law-abiding, and resolute as they pursue fairness, justice, and improved welfare within the FCT Administration.
— Reporting by SUNTV Global Channel
