NAFDAC Strike Enters Third Week Workers Demand Urgent Action Or No Return To Work

NAFDAC Strike Enters Third Week Workers Demand Urgent Action Or No Return To Work

The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, NAFDAC branch, has reaffirmed its commitment to the ongoing strike action that commenced on October 7, citing the need for immediate resolution of several critical issues affecting its members…..CONTINUE READING 

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday, the Chapter Chairman, Adetoboye Ayodeji, stressed that it is the responsibility of NAFDAC’s management to begin negotiations and provide concrete assurances that their demands will be met.

The strike, now entering its third week, is focused on the review of the 2024 promotion examinations and alleged irregularities in staff promotions. Ayodeji expressed frustration with the agency’s handling of the process, highlighting that many qualified staff members were not promoted due to “vacancy slots” imposed by the Head of Service.

This situation has left numerous eligible employees feeling overlooked and demoralized. “Workers want to know why those who passed the exams are still awaiting their rightful promotions while new recruits are being brought in,” Ayodeji said.

He also pointed out that only 36 percent of over 700 candidates who participated in the exams were promoted, a figure the union finds unacceptable. “In an agency like this, promoting just 36 percent of staff will never inspire motivation. We are demanding that at least 80 percent be acknowledged for their achievements,” Ayodeji added.

Furthermore, Ayodeji warned that the low morale among staff could negatively affect NAFDAC’s operations, which are vital to the health of Nigeria’s population of 200 million. The strike also stems from unresolved statutory arrears and benefits for staff hired in 2022. Despite an agreement with the government and NAFDAC management to improve conditions, many promises remain unfulfilled, with allowances meant to be paid by December 2022 still outstanding.

The union has made multiple attempts to engage with management, but inadequate responses led to the decision to strike after a two-week notice received no satisfactory reply.