A potential labor dispute is emerging within the Nigerian federal civil service due to a demolition threat targeting the Federal Integrated Staff Housing (FISH) Programme. Thousands of civil servants, who have contributed significant funds to this government-backed initiative, now fear their investments are at risk.
The Abuja Metropolitan Management Council (AMMC) reportedly ordered the demolition of housing units currently being built in the Bamishi Cadastral District of Kuje. These properties were funded through consistent salary deductions from participating employees.
In a formal petition to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Esther Didi Walson-Jack, the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) is seeking immediate government intervention. National Chairman Benjamin Uyanto and Secretary Olowoyo Gbenga stated that the land was properly allocated in 2021 by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and vetted by federal authorities before the project commenced.
The union suggests that conflicting land claims and the recent demolition notice have jeopardized the project. They have formally requested that the Head of the Civil Service engage the Federal Capital Territory Administration to halt the demolition and resolve the conflict. Without a swift resolution, the union has warned that widespread industrial action may occur across the public sector. As of now, no official statement has been released by the relevant government agencies regarding the situation.
