The President of the Joint Unions Action Committee (JUAC), Comrade Rifkatu Iortyer, has commended the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) for its infrastructure drive while calling for greater attention to the welfare of civil servants.
Iortyer made the call in Abuja during a surprise birthday gathering organised in her honour as she marked her 58th birthday.
Reflecting on recent labour disputes and negotiations within the FCTA, the JUAC president acknowledged the commitment of workers and union leaders who, she said, remained resilient in pressing for improved welfare and better working conditions.
She also commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for what she described as his administration’s visible commitment to infrastructure development and urban renewal in Abuja.
Iortyer specifically praised the rehabilitation and construction of roads across the nation’s capital, noting that the quality of some of the newly completed roads had significantly improved movement within the city.
However, she stressed that infrastructure development should go hand in hand with policies that improve the welfare and working conditions of the civil servants responsible for running the administration.
The JUAC leader recalled the period leading to the shutdown of the FCTA Secretariat, describing it as a challenging phase for the unions and their members.
She said union members made personal sacrifices during the protests, including paying for accommodation in the city centre to ensure they were available early for demonstrations and other engagements.
Iortyer further acknowledged the support of the FCT Minister’s Press Corps, praising journalists for their professionalism and sustained coverage of the labour-related developments.
She said JUAC had now adopted a more constructive approach focused on sustainable engagement, institutional stability and industrial harmony.
According to her, the objective is to strengthen dialogue between labour and the FCT Administration while ensuring that the concerns of workers receive appropriate attention.
She expressed optimism that the FCT leadership would continue to recognise the important role played by civil servants in sustaining the administration and delivering services to residents.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of the FCT Department of Reforms Coordination and Service Improvement, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, paid tribute to Iortyer’s leadership and dedication to public service.
Ahmadu, who drew inspiration from Psalm 103, described the celebrant as a selfless leader whose generosity and commitment had made a positive impact on colleagues and the FCT workforce.
She led other colleagues and guests in a toast to Iortyer, celebrating her years of service and wishing her continued strength and success.
