The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has invoked the “No Work, No Pay” policy against the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) following their recent warning strike,Daily Trust reports.
NARD initiated a nationwide seven-day warning strike on Monday to protest the continued detention of their abducted member, Dr. Ganiyat Popoola-Olawale.
In a statement released on Thursday, ministry spokesman Ado Bako expressed deep disappointment with NARD’s decision to proceed with the strike. The ministry noted that the association took this action despite ongoing negotiations and repeated appeals from the federal government to resolve the issues and maintain industrial harmony.
The ministry called the decision to strike, even amid ongoing discussions, deeply regrettable, emphasizing that continued dialogue is the most effective way to address outstanding concerns.
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“In light of this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare informs the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) that, in accordance with existing labor laws, the Federal Government will enforce the ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy for the duration of the strike. This action is not meant 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,” the ministry stated.
The ministry also affirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety, welfare, and improved working conditions of all healthcare workers, including resident doctors.
“Significant progress has been made in recent negotiations, and the government has shown good faith by addressing many of the concerns raised by NARD,” the statement continued.
Additionally, the ministry highlighted its ongoing efforts, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser, to secure the immediate and safe release of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola.
The statement underscored that high-level discussions and coordinated efforts are currently in progress, with confidence that these measures will lead to a positive outcome.
The Federal Ministry of Health urged all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table to collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector.
“As always, the ministry remains open to constructive dialogue and is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and sustainable resolution,” the statement concluded.
