Workers Return As Strike Paused

Workers Return As Strike Paused

Normal activities resumed on Wednesday at the Federal Capital Territory Administration and its agencies after workers returned to their offices, following a court order that halted the ongoing strike.

Offices that had been shut for days began to reopen as staff gradually reported for duty across the capital.

The return followed a ruling delivered on Tuesday by the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, which directed workers under the Joint Union Action Committee to suspend the strike to allow talks to continue.

The decision was aimed at easing tensions and restoring essential public services within the FCT.

After the ruling, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, called on workers to resume work immediately, insisting that while protest remains a democratic right, court decisions must be obeyed. The directive set the tone for a swift response within the civil service.

To enforce compliance, the Acting Head of the FCT Civil Service, Nancy Sabanti, issued a circular instructing all secretariats, departments and agencies to reopen and strictly monitor staff attendance.

The notice, dated January 27, 2026, also directed permanent secretaries and agency heads to ensure full resumption while assuring workers of the administration’s concern for their welfare.

A check at several FCTA offices and related agencies showed noticeable improvement in attendance, with workers seen carrying out routine duties, signalling a gradual return to normal governance activities in the territory.