NAFDAC DG urges striking staff to resume work amid public health concerns

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control’s (NAFDAC) Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, on Monday, appealed to striking staff to return to work, citing potential risks to public health, safety and security.

The Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC) began an indefinite strike on October 7 over staff welfare concerns.

Key grievances include:

– Promotion Examination Results: Review of 2024 promotion examination results

– Director Appointments: Appointment of directors for public affairs/special duties, training institute

– Promotion Examination Content Reform: Reform of promotion examination content

– Psychology Officer Cadre Creation: Creation of psychology officer cadre

– Pending Benefits: Payment of burial expenses, life insurance, repatriation allowance and 2022 salary arrears

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Adeyeye, in a letter to the striking workers emphasized that efforts to resolve these issues have been unsuccessful. “The prolonged strike poses a potential risk to Nigerians’ health, safety and security, disrupting critical regulatory functions,” she cautioned.

The strike’s financial implications are significant, with Adeyeye noting, “The cost to the agency is unquantifiable in terms of reputation and revenue loss, impacting productivity allowance payments in 2024 and 2025.”

Adeyeye clarified that promotion in public service is merit-based, subject to vacancy availability, determined by the Office of Head of Civil Service of the Federation. NAFDAC management has requested vacancy expansions through the coordinating minister of health and social welfare.

Regarding union concerns, Adeyeye stated that:

– Hazard, Productivity and Regulatory Allowances have been Partially addressed through secretary to the government of the federation interventions.

– Repatriation, Burial Expenses and Life Insurance Benefits: Paid to deserving staff as needed; management ensures outstanding claims are addressed.

– Disengagement Allowance: Payment delays will be promptly addressed.

Adeyeye appealed to the striking staff to “Return to work and get NAFDAC moving. Your dedication, diligence and hard work are NAFDAC’s hallmark. I hope you’ll hearken to this appeal in Nigeria’s interest.”

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