The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has expressed disappointment over the decision made by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to initiate a seven-day warning strike. This decision comes despite ongoing appeals from the Federal Government, which aimed to address the doctors’ concerns and maintain industrial peace within the healthcare sector.
In a statement released by the ministry’s spokesperson, Ado Bako, the Federal Government announced that it would enforce the “no work, no pay” policy for the duration of the strike, in accordance with existing labor laws. Bako clarified that this action is not meant to dismiss the valid concerns of medical professionals but is intended to ensure that essential healthcare services are not excessively disrupted, as this could negatively impact the public.
The strike, which began on Monday, was launched by resident doctors across Nigeria. Their primary demand is the immediate release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a doctor based in Kaduna who has been held captive by kidnappers for over eight months.
Bako also stated that, over the past several months, the ministry has been actively collaborating with relevant security agencies to secure the release of Dr. Popoola. He assured that high-level discussions and coordinated rescue efforts are currently underway to address the situation.
The ministry’s statement further urged all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table, emphasizing the importance of working together to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector in Nigeria. The statement reiterated: “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 action 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 resume dialogue with the government to collaboratively find lasting solutions to the issues affecting 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.”
