NLC Launches Indefinite Strike in FCT Over Education Issues

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Federal Capital Territory Council, declared an indefinite strike on October 7, directing workers to shut down schools, hospitals, and government offices across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This action followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum given to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike regarding grievances related to the education sector and the treatment of teachers.

NLC FCT Council Chairman Knabayi Adalo announced the strike after an emergency State Executive Council meeting, citing the administration's failure to address the union's demands satisfactorily. Key issues include the abolition of a vacancy precondition for teachers' promotion, which the NLC argues causes career stagnation.

The union also demands that eligible teachers be allowed to take the 2025 promotion examination alongside the 2026 batch and the withdrawal of demotion letters issued to directors under the Education Secretariat. Adalo criticized the FCT Administration's response as inadequate and unacceptable.