NUJ-FCT Concerns: Water Scarcity, Fuel Prices, and Minimum Wage Delay

NUJ-FCT Concerns: Water Scarcity, Fuel Prices, and Minimum Wage Delay

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council has raised alarm over worsening living conditions in Abuja, citing persistent water scarcity, rising fuel prices, and the delayed implementation of the new minimum wage as urgent issues requiring government intervention. These concerns were formally expressed in a communiqué issued after the NUJ FCT Congress held on March 14, 2026.

On March 14, 2026, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory Council, convened a congress to deliberate on pressing socio-economic challenges affecting residents of Abuja and Nigerians at large.

The congress culminated in a communiqué highlighting three critical issues: water scarcity, rising fuel prices, and delayed minimum wage implementation. These challenges, according to the NUJ, are compounding hardship and threatening public welfare.

The NUJ-FCT Council expressed deep concern over persistent water shortages in Abuja, which have left many communities struggling to access clean and safe water. The union warned that the scarcity poses serious public health risks, particularly in densely populated areas where residents are forced to rely on unsafe water sources.

The communiqué emphasized that the government must urgently address failing infrastructure and ensure reliable water supply to avert a looming health crisis.

The congress also highlighted the continuous increase in fuel prices, which has significantly worsened economic hardship. The NUJ noted that higher fuel costs have led to inflated transportation fares, increased food prices, and higher costs of goods and services, thereby eroding the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians.

The union called on the Federal Government to introduce cushioning measures to stabilize the energy sector and reduce the burden on citizens.

Another major concern raised was the delay in implementing the new minimum wage. The NUJ stressed that workers in the FCT and across Nigeria are struggling to cope with rising living costs without the relief of an updated wage structure.

The union urged the government to expedite the process, noting that the delay undermines workers’ morale and exacerbates poverty levels.

Beyond these three issues, the NUJ also pointed to growing insecurity and failing infrastructure in Abuja, warning that these factors collectively deepen hardship and threaten social stability.

The communiqué underscored the need for urgent reforms and decisive government action to restore confidence and improve living conditions.

The NUJ FCT Council’s communiqué serves as a stark reminder of the mounting challenges facing residents of Abuja and Nigerians nationwide. By drawing attention to water scarcity, fuel price hikes, and wage delays, the union has amplified the voices of citizens demanding urgent government intervention.

The report underscores that without swift action, these issues could escalate into broader crises affecting public health, economic stability, and national security.