BREAKING: NAFDAC workers embark on indefinite strike nationwide

The staff of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) have launched an indefinite nationwide strike following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given to the agency’s management.

This decision was confirmed after a congress of NAFDAC employees, held on Friday, October 4, 2024, where unresolved grievances were discussed.

The striking workers, under the leadership of the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), have been directed to cease all services and vacate their offices, with orders to remove personal belongings as the industrial action begins.

Among the employees’ demands is a review and re-evaluation of the 2024 promotion exam results, which currently show a pass rate of only 35%. The union is pushing for a minimum pass rate of 80% for both this year and future exams. Another key issue is the payment of salary arrears owed to staff employed in 2022, among other pressing matters.

In a statement signed by the union’s secretary, Ejor Michael, the association accused NAFDAC management of failing to address their concerns, calling the inaction unacceptable.

The workers have vowed to continue the strike until all their demands, as outlined in their communiqué, are met. As NAFDAC plays a pivotal role in regulating Nigeria’s food, drug, and pharmaceutical sectors, the strike is expected to significantly disrupt its operations.

Attempts to reach NAFDAC management for a response were unsuccessful at the time of this report.