NAFDAC workers begin indefinite strike over welfare issues

The Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations And Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), an affiliate of the Trade Union Congress of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has begun an indefinite strike over issues revolving around staff welfare.

Some of the issues include review of 2024 promotion examination results, appointment of directors for public affairs/special duties, training institute, and reform of promotion examination content.

Others are creation of psychology officer cadre in accordance with HOS circular, payment of all pending burial expenses, life insurance and repatriation allowance, and salary arrears for 2022 employees.

In a statement, Ejor Michael, TUC secretary, said the workers had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the agency’s management in a communique dated September 20, 2024.

The statement said another congress of NAFDAC staff was convened on October 4, following the expiration of the ultimatum.

“After careful deliberation, Congress unanimously resolved to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike across all NAFDAC formations, commencing Monday, 7th October 2024,” the statement reads.

“In view of the foregoing, you are hereby directed to down tools by withdrawing all your services in compliance with the strike action.

“This decision is a result of NAFDAC Management’s failure to address the critical issues outlined in the Communique within the given time frame.

“The Congress considers this ongoing inaction insufferable and accentuates that the industrial action will continue unabated until all demands specified in the Communique are fully met.

“In light of this, all staff are advised to remove their personal belongings from their offices, as no one, no matter the rank or cadre, will be allowed entry into any NAFDAC Office (premises) during the strike period.

“SSASCGOC State and Zonal Coordinators are hereby directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.

“Dear Comrades, your cooperation is greatly treasured to ensure the effectiveness of this indefinite nationwide strike action.

“We will not relent until all issues are satisfactorily addressed.”