Staff of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have begun an indefinite nationwide strike, following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given to the agency’s management to address unresolved issues. The strike was officially confirmed after a staff congress held on Friday, October 4, 2024.
Under the directive of the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), workers have been instructed to vacate their offices and withdraw all services. They have also been told to remove personal belongings, signaling the start of the strike action.
The key demands fueling the industrial action include a review of the results from the 2024 promotion examination, which reportedly has a pass rate of only 35%. The union is calling for a minimum pass rate of 80% for this and future exams. Additionally, the workers are demanding the settlement of salary arrears for employees hired in 2022, among other grievances.
In a statement signed by the Association’s Secretary, Ejor Michael, the union accused NAFDAC management of disregarding their complaints, calling the inaction “insufferable.” The workers have vowed to continue the strike until all their demands are fully addressed.
NAFDAC, responsible for regulating Nigeria’s food, drug, and pharmaceutical industries, is expected to face significant operational challenges as a result of the strike. Attempts to obtain a response from NAFDAC management regarding the strike have so far been unsuccessful.