NAFDAC workers embark on nationwide strike
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has been hit with an indefinite nationwide strike following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the agency’s management.
This strike, which began after a congress of NAFDAC employees on Friday, October 4, 2024, reflects deep-rooted frustrations over unresolved grievances.
Led by the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), the striking workers have been instructed to halt all services and vacate their offices.
They were also told to remove their personal belongings as the industrial action officially takes off.
At the heart of the workers’ demands is a call for the review and re-evaluation of the 2024 promotion exam results, which currently show a dismal pass rate of 35%. The union is advocating for a minimum pass rate of 80% to be implemented for this year’s exams as well as future ones.
Additionally, they are demanding the payment of salary arrears owed to staff employed in 2022, among other pressing concerns.
In a statement released by the union’s secretary, Ejor Michael, NAFDAC management was accused of neglecting these issues, which the union deemed unacceptable.
The workers have vowed to continue their strike until all demands, as outlined in their communiqué, are addressed.
With NAFDAC being a key player in regulating Nigeria’s food, drug, and pharmaceutical sectors, the strike is expected to have a significant impact on the agency’s operations, affecting businesses and consumers alike.
Attempts to get a response from NAFDAC management were unsuccessful at the time of this report, leaving uncertainty about when and how these critical issues will be resolved.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
