FG enforces ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy on striking resident doctors
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has announced its decision to implement the “no work, no pay” policy against the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), following their decision to embark on a seven-day warning strike.
This action comes despite the ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to address the concerns of the medical professionals and maintain industrial harmony.
In a statement released by the ministry’s spokesperson, Ado Bako, the government emphasized that the enforcement of this policy is not intended to undermine the legitimate concerns of the doctors but is crucial to ensure that essential healthcare services remain uninterrupted, safeguarding public welfare.
The strike was initiated by NARD on Monday, primarily to protest the prolonged kidnapping of Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held captive for over eight months.
The doctors are demanding her immediate release. Bako highlighted that the ministry, in collaboration with security agencies, has been actively working towards securing Dr. Popoola’s release, with high-level discussions and coordinated efforts currently underway.
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The ministry has urged the resident doctors to return to the negotiation table, stressing the importance of a collaborative approach to resolving the challenges facing the healthcare sector.
It reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue and to finding a fair and sustainable resolution to the ongoing issues.
The government’s stance is clear: while the doctors’ concerns are valid, the continuation of essential services cannot be compromised.
The ministry remains open to discussions and is committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the wellbeing of the public and the resolution of the current impasse.
