NUJ FCT Congress Raises Alarm Over Water Scarcity, Fuel Price Hike, Delayed Minimum Wage

NUJ FCT Congress Raises Alarm Over Water Scarcity, Fuel Price Hike, Delayed Minimum Wage

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council has expressed concern over a range of socio-economic challenges affecting residents of the nation’s capital, including persistent water scarcity, rising fuel prices, and delays in the implementation of the new minimum wage for federal workers.

The concerns were contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the NUJ FCT Council Congress held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, where members deliberated on issues affecting the welfare of citizens and the general state of affairs in the Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria at large.

Rising Fuel Prices

Congress expressed worry over the continued increase in the price of fuel and its ripple effect on the cost of living across the country. It urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently introduce measures to cushion the economic hardship currently faced by Nigerians.

Water Scarcity

The Congress also decried the prolonged shortage of potable water in several parts of the FCT. It called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), under the leadership of the Nyesom Wike, to take immediate action to restore regular water supply and prevent potential outbreaks of communicable diseases linked to poor hygiene.

Epileptic Power Supply

Congress further lamented the persistent problem of unstable electricity supply across the country, particularly within the FCT. It urged relevant authorities to take decisive steps to stabilise power supply to enhance economic productivity and improve the quality of life for residents.

Minimum Wage Implementation

Members noted with concern that the new minimum wage approved for federal government workers since last year is yet to be fully implemented. Congress therefore called on the Federal Government to fast-track the process to ease the economic burden currently faced by workers.

Resurgence of Refuse Heaps

Congress also observed the reappearance of refuse heaps in several locations across the territory and urged the FCTA to intensify waste evacuation and ensure effective environmental sanitation to prevent possible disease outbreaks.

Deforestation and Environmental Concerns

Rising cases of deforestation within the FCT, particularly the indiscriminate felling of Melina trees, also drew the attention of Congress. Members called on both government authorities and residents to promote tree planting and environmental conservation to mitigate the rising heat waves being experienced in the territory.

Mentally Ill Persons on the Streets

Congress further expressed concern over the growing number of mentally ill persons roaming the streets of the FCT and urged the Department of Social Welfare and other relevant agencies to take urgent steps to rehabilitate and provide necessary care for affected individuals.

“One Chance” Robbery Operations

The Congress also raised alarm over the increasing activities of “one chance” robbery syndicates across parts of the territory. It called on the FCT Minister, security agencies and other law enforcement bodies to restrategise and intensify operations to curb the menace and ensure the safety of residents and commuters.

Commitment to Advocacy

The NUJ FCT Council reaffirmed its commitment to promoting policies and actions that support good governance, public welfare and sustainable development.

It also urged relevant government authorities to treat the highlighted concerns with urgency in the interest of the health, safety and well-being of residents of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigerians at large.