The Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), affiliated with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and representing employees of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has initiated an indefinite strike.
Torizone understands that the NAFDAC staff were protesting unresolved issues regarding their welfare.
The group commenced the industrial action on Monday, October 7, focusing on multiple demands, including a review of the 2024 promotion examination results, appointments for critical director positions in public affairs and special duties, reforms to the promotion examination content, and the creation of a psychology officer cadre as directed by the Head of Service (HOS).
Additional concerns encompass the settlement of outstanding burial expenses, life insurance, repatriation allowances, and salary arrears for employees who were hired in 2022.
A statement from TUC Secretary Ejor Michael noted that the workers had previously issued a 14-day ultimatum to NAFDAC management in a communiqué dated September 20, 2024.
After the ultimatum lapsed, a staff congress at NAFDAC was held on October 4, where the decision to commence an indefinite nationwide strike was reached unanimously.
"After careful deliberation, Congress unanimously resolved to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike across all NAFDAC formations, commencing Monday, 7th October 2024," the statement noted.
The union conveyed its dissatisfaction regarding the management of NAFDAC for not resolving the significant issues highlighted in the communique within the designated timeline. Consequently, the union instructed all employees to cease their duties and leave the NAFDAC premises during the strike.
It noted, "This decision is a result of NAFDAC Management's failure to address the critical issues outlined in the Communique within the given time frame."
SSASCGOC also instructed state and zonal coordinators of the union to ensure full compliance with the strike.
It stressed that the strike would persist until all demands were met.
"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," the statement concluded.
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