Work is set to be paralysed across the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) beginning Monday, January 19, 2026, as workers commence an indefinite strike over unresolved labour issues.
The Joint Union Action Congress (JUAC), which represents workers across the FCT public service, announced the industrial action and instructed its members to withdraw their services until further notice. The directive applies to staff in all secretariats, departments, agencies, area councils and parastatals under the FCTA.
In a circular issued to workers, the union explained that the strike followed the expiration of a seven-day warning notice earlier served on the FCTA leadership. According to JUAC, the ultimatum expired without meaningful engagement or concrete steps by management to address the workers’ grievances.
The unions cited a range of long-standing issues, including unpaid wage awards and accumulated promotion arrears affecting employees across multiple cadres. They also faulted delays in promotion exercises and criticised the continued stay of retired directors and permanent secretaries in office beyond their legally approved tenure.
Another major concern raised by JUAC is the alleged failure of the authorities to remit pension contributions and National Housing Fund (NHF) deductions already taken from workers’ salaries. The union described the situation as a breach of trust and a threat to workers’ long-term welfare.
Additional complaints include poor office conditions, alleged intimidation of staff, and what the unions described as sustained neglect of workers’ career development and overall wellbeing.
JUAC also expressed anger over the outcome of the 2024 promotion examinations, noting that more than three-quarters of candidates reportedly failed. The union described the result as demoralising and reflective of deeper systemic problems within the administration.
Workers have been directed to stay away from their duty posts and comply fully with the strike action until their demands are met. The notice announcing the strike was electronically endorsed by the JUAC secretary.
As at the time of this report, the Federal Capital Territory Administration had yet to issue an official response to the planned shutdown.
