A spokesperson for the National Agency for Foods and Drug Administration and Control, Dr Sayo Akintola, clarified that the grievances raised by NAFDAC staff members during their protest were not under the agency’s jurisdiction.
He explained that only the Head of the Service of the Federation had the authority to address the concerns of the protesting employees.
The strike, initiated by the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies, began on October 7 due to unresolved issues surrounding promotions and welfare concerns.
The Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, NAFDAC branch, also joined the strike, vowing to continue until their demands are met.
During an interview in Kaduna, the chapter chairman, Adetoboye Ayodeji, expressed that it was up to the agency’s management to initiate negotiations with the union to address the issues effectively.
Akintola provided an update on the situation, stating that some of the demands were beyond the agency’s control and were being communicated to the appropriate authorities for resolution, particularly issues related to promotions.
He assured the protesting staff that the government would address the promotion matters soon and emphasized that promotions were based on available vacancies and budget constraints.
The ongoing strike has impacted operations, as confirmed by the National Public Relations Officer of the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria, Mr Taiwo Fatobilola.
The disruption in NAFDAC activities has caused delays in clearing consignments, especially those involving medicines, chemicals, and regulated items.
The strike has led to containers being stranded at terminals, accumulating charges, and affecting manufacturers and the economy, as highlighted by various industry stakeholders.
The situation has created challenges for clearing agencies and businesses involved in handling shipments regulated by NAFDAC, impacting the overall logistics sector.
It is crucial for the issues causing the strike to be resolved promptly to minimize losses and disruptions in the supply chain.