The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Thursday said it would invoke the “no work, no pay” rule against members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) who are on strike over the abduction of one of their colleagues in Kaduna since December 2023.
This was stated by the Ministry in a statement issued by its Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako.
The statement expressed disappointment with resident doctors for initiating a seven-day warning strike despite ongoing negotiations and efforts to address their concerns.
The Ministry stressed its commitment to ensuring the safety and improving the well-being and working conditions of all health workers, including resident doctors.
He highlighted the significant progress made in recent negotiations and the government's demonstration of good faith in addressing many of NARD's concerns.
'No work, no pay'
The statement said the ministry considers the decision to proceed with the strike “deeply regrettable” and will invoke the “No work, no pay” rule.
“In view of this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare wishes to bring to the notice of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), that in line with the existing labour laws, the Federal Government will evoke (invoke) the ‘No Work, No Pay’ law for the number of days the strike was observed,” the statement read in part.
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The Ministry encouraged all resident physicians to return to the negotiating table to collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the health sector.
He said the Ministry remains open to constructive dialogue and is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and sustainable solution.
NARD 7-day warning strike
NARD has launched a seven-day warning strike to demand the release of its abducted colleague, Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held captive for eight months.
NARD president Dele Abdullahi said the strike would be “total,” adding that members of the association would not provide concessions or emergency care during this period.
The association criticised the government for its perceived “inaction” in the face of the kidnapping.
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Ms. Popoola, a doctor at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was abducted in December 2023 along with her husband and nephew.
While her husband was released after paying a ransom, Mrs Popoola and her nephew remain in captivity.