Workers and labour leaders are preparing to take to the streets of Abuja on February 3 in a show of solidarity with Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) staff who have been on strike since January 19.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) jointly announced plans for a peaceful rally in support of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC), which is leading the industrial action over unpaid salaries. In a statement signed by NLC General Secretary Benson Upah and TUC Secretary General Nuhu Toro, the unions described the rally as a demonstration of unity and a call for urgent resolution of long-standing grievances.
JUAC workers initiated an indefinite strike in response to unmet demands for improved labour welfare, shutting down critical administrative offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA, after a seven-day ultimatum issued on January 7 expired without action from management.
Labour leaders insist that the rally will be non-violent, emphasizing that the aim is to pressure the FCTA management to address the financial and welfare concerns of its staff. “This is about ensuring that workers’ rights are respected and that no employee is left without their earned salaries,” the unions said.
As the rally date approaches, many observers are watching closely, noting that the protest could highlight broader challenges in public sector labour relations and push authorities toward meaningful dialogue with striking workers.
