FCTA Releases Over N4Bn For Area Councils Minimum Wage

(L-R) Head of Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack and FCTA Head of Service, Mrs Grace Adayilo during the Workers Day rally in Abuja

By: Rabi Musa Umar

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has released the sum of over N4 billion for the payment of minimum wage in the six Area Councils of the Territory to address the on-going strike action by Area Council employees, over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage.

The Minister, Nyesom Wike, who made this disclosure during the 2025 Worlers Day at the Eagle Square, expressed deep concern about the on-going strike action by Area Council employees over the non-implementation of the new minimum wage.

Wike, who was represented at the ocassion by the FCT Head of the Civil Service, Mrs. Grace Adayilo, approved the release of the sum of N4.166,194,061.25, which was paid to the Area Councils.

The Minister confirmed the release of funds to the Area Councils and urged them to ensure the payment of the minimum wage including its arrears to the workers.

His words: “I once again call on them to ensure the payment of the minimum wage and its arrears to the workers”.

Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of its staff and ensuring the best possible conditions of service.

The Minister said the FCT Administration recognizes the economic realities confronting workers and pledged that the his Administration will continue to proritize the welfare of all its workers.

According to him, “Today, I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to staff welfare and best ever conditions of service. We believe that a motivated workforce is the backbone of effective public service delivery”.

Wike acknowledged the dedication, resilience, and patriotism of workers, and their immense contributions to the progress and development of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria; noting that every worker, from the lowest rank to the highest, contributes immensely to the task of nation building.

The Minister outlined several key initiatives undertaken by the FCTA since assuming office in 2023 to improve the working conditions and well-being of staff, including timely payment of workers’ salaries and pensions, staff training and capacity development, upgrading of workspaces and infrastructure, as well as promotion and career progression.

Speaking on the theme of this year’s Workers Day celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship”, he said the theme challenges everyone to reflect on the importance of safeguarding democratic participation, transparency, and worker rights, even during economic challenges.

“In this context, reclaiming the civic space means ensuring that the voices of workers remain central to governance, policy-making, and economic reform”, the Minister stated.

He further stressed the commitment of the FCT Administration to improving the working conditions for teachers in the Area Councils, including upgrading of school facilities and provision of learning materials.