The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has expressed disappointment over the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors’ (NARD) decision to embark on a seven-day warning strike, despite efforts by the Federal Government to address their concerns and maintain industrial harmony.
In a statement by the ministry’s spokesman, Ado Bako, the government announced the enforcement of the “no work, no pay” policy for the duration of the strike, in accordance with existing labor laws. Bako emphasized that this measure is not meant to undermine the legitimate concerns of medical professionals but is necessary to ensure that essential healthcare services remain uninterrupted for the public’s benefit.
Resident doctors across Nigeria began the strike on Monday, demanding the release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a Kaduna-based physician who has been held by kidnappers for over eight months.
On Thursday, Bako stated that the ministry, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, has been actively working to secure Dr. Popoola’s release, with ongoing high-level discussions and coordinated efforts.
The statement urged resident doctors to return to the negotiation table to collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare wishes to inform the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) that, in line with existing labor laws, the Federal Government will enforce the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy for the days the strike is observed.
“This measure is not intended to undermine the legitimate concerns of our medical professionals but to ensure that essential healthcare services are not unduly disrupted to the detriment of the public.
“We encourage all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table so that we can collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing our healthcare sector. The Ministry remains open to constructive dialogue and is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and sustainable resolution,” the ministry stated.