The Nigerian government is set to enforce a “no work, no pay” policy on resident doctors amid a seven-day warning strike organized by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD). This action, starting Monday, follows the ongoing abduction crisis involving Dr. Ganiyat Popoola, a registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna. Dr. Popoola, along with her husband and nephew, was kidnapped eight months ago. Her husband was released earlier this year, but Dr. Popoola and her nephew remain in captivity.The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare expressed disappointment over the strike, which the government views as premature given ongoing negotiations. According to Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, the government is committed to resolving the issues but insists that industrial actions disrupting essential services are unacceptable. The ministry claims extensive efforts are being made, in collaboration with security agencies, to secure Dr. Popoola’s release and emphasizes that the strike undermines these efforts.The “no work, no pay” policy will be implemented in accordance with labor laws to ensure minimal disruption to healthcare services. The government appeals to the doctors to return to negotiations, emphasizing a willingness to continue dialogue to address their concerns. The goal is to find a sustainable resolution while maintaining essential healthcare services.
