Breaking: NAFDAC workers embark on indefinite strike

The Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies (SSASCGOC), an affiliate of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) within the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has embarked on an indefinite strike over unresolved welfare issues.

The strike, which began on Monday, October 7, 2024, follows the failure of NAFDAC’s management to address key concerns regarding staff promotions, salaries, and general welfare, despite several meetings aimed at resolving the issues.

In a communique titled SSASCGOC/NAFDAC/COMMUNIQUE/VOL.1, issued on October 4, 2024, the workers stated that the decision to down tools came after the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given to management on September 20, 2024. According to the union, the management’s inaction forced them to escalate the situation.

The communique, signed by Comrade (Dr.) Ejor Michael, Secretary of the TUC, emphasized the necessity of the strike. “After careful deliberation, Congress unanimously resolved to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike across all NAFDAC formations,” the statement read.

The union’s leadership directed all staff to withdraw their services and remove personal belongings from offices, with strict orders that no one—regardless of rank—will be allowed to access NAFDAC premises during the strike.

State and Zonal Coordinators of SSASCGOC have been instructed to enforce full compliance with the strike, which will continue until all demands specified in the communique are addressed.

The industrial action marks a significant disruption to NAFDAC operations nationwide, with the union vowing not to relent until workers’ concerns are adequately resolved.