The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has expressed its disappointment with the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for proceeding with a seven-day warning strike, despite the Federal Government’s efforts to address their concerns and maintain industrial peace.
In a statement released by the Ministry’s spokesman Ado Bako, the Federal Government has announced the enforcement of the “no work, no pay” policy for the duration of the strike, in accordance with existing labour laws.
Bako emphasized that the measure is not intended to undermine the legitimate concerns of medical professionals but to ensure that essential healthcare services are not unduly disrupted to the detriment of the public.
Retrospectively, the resident doctors across Nigeria commenced a seven-day strike on Monday, primarily to demand the release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a Kaduna-based doctor, who has been held captive by kidnappers for over eight months.
However, Bako disclosed that the Ministry, in collaboration with relevant security agencies has been actively working to secure Popoola’s release. He assured that high-level discussions and coordinated efforts are currently underway.
The Ministry has hereby urged all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts in finding solutions to the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare sector.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and fair resolution.
