Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Thursday said it will enforce a no-work-no-pay rule against members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) who are on strike from December 2023 over the abduction of one of their colleagues in Kaduna.
The ministry said this in a statement through the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako.
The statement expressed disappointment that resident doctors have gone on a seven-day warning strike despite ongoing negotiations and efforts to address their concerns.
The Ministry emphasised its commitment to ensure the safety of all health workers, including resident doctors, and improve their welfare and working conditions.
It 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 regards the decision to extend the strike as “extremely regrettable” and will enforce the “no work no pay” rule.
“In view of this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare wishes to bring to the attention of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) that in line with extant labour laws, the Federal Government will implement a ‘no work, no pay’ policy for the number of days of strike,” the statement said.
The ministry encouraged all resident doctors to return to the negotiating table to find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector.
It said the ministry is ready for constructive dialogue and is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and lasting solution.
NARD's 7 day warning strike
NARD has launched a seven-day warning strike to demand the release of its kidnapped colleague, Ganyat Popoola who has been held captive for eight months.
NARD chairman Dele Abdullahi had said the strike would be “total”, adding that members of the association would not provide any concessions or emergency care during the period.
The association criticised the government for its alleged “inaction” in the kidnapping case.
Also read: Nigerian government urges resident doctors to call off warning strike
Mrs Popoola is a Registrar at the National Eye Centre. KadunaWas kidnapped along with her husband and nephew in December 2023.
Although her husband was released after a ransom was paid, Mrs Popoola and her nephew remain in captivity.
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