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Nigerian govt. invokes no-work-no-pay rule against striking resident doctors
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare said on Thursday that it would invoke the no-work-no-pay rule against members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) who are on strike over the abduction of one of their colleagues in Kaduna since December 2023.
The ministry said this in a statement by its Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Ado Bako.
The statement expressed disappointment in the resident doctors for embarking on the seven-day warning strike despite ongoing negotiations and efforts to address their concerns.
The ministry emphasised its commitment to ensuring the safety and improving the welfare and working conditions of all healthcare workers, including resident doctors.
It highlighted significant strides 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 revealed that the ministry finds the decision to proceed with the strike action “deeply regrettable” and will invoke the “No Work, No Pay” rule.
“In view of this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare wishes to bring to the notice of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), that in line with extant labour laws, the Federal Government will evoke (invoke) the ‘No Work, No Pay’ for the number of days the strike was observed,” the statement read in part.
The ministry encouraged all resident doctors to return to the negotiation table to collaboratively find lasting solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare sector.
It stated that the ministry remains open to constructive dialogue and is committed to working with all stakeholders to achieve a fair and sustainable resolution.
NARD 7-Day warning strike
NARD began a seven-day warning strike to demand the release of their abducted colleague, Ganiyat Popoola, who has been held captive for eight months.
NARD President Dele Abdullahi had said the strike would be “total”, adding that members of the association would not provide concessions or emergency care during this period.
The association criticised the government for its perceived “inaction” over the abduction.
Mrs Popoola, a registrar at the National Eye Centre in Kaduna, was kidnapped in December 2023 alongside her husband and nephew.
While her husband was released after a ransom was paid, Mrs Popoola and her nephew remain in captivity.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
In commemoration of this year’s International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the House of Representatives will lead a landmark march on Monday, November 25, 2024, along with other strategic activities as part of its unwavering commitment to eradicating gender-based violence (GBV) in Nigeria.
This was contained in a statement issued by the HoR spokesperson, Rotimi Akin, Jr on Saturday.
According to him the march, which starts at 8:00 AM, will bring together over 1,000 participants – including Representatives and members of the public – on a symbolic walk from the National Assembly to the Headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force.
This demonstration of solidarity will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action to safeguard vulnerable populations and ensure accountability for perpetrators of GBV.
“This march and the associated activities are not just symbolic gestures, they reflect our resolve and call to action against gender-based violence head-on,” said Hon. Abbas Tajudeen,, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“We stand united in the fight to protect the rights and dignity of all Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable. Together, through collective action and legislative reforms, we can build a society where safety, justice, and equality prevail.”
Beyond the march, the 10th House of Representatives in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023 – 2027) has outlined *key activities to sustain awareness and action throughout the 16 Days of Activism:*
1. *Sash Demonstration Ceremony* – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Members of the House will don orange sashes, symbolising solidarity with the fight against GBV, during plenary sessions throughout the campaign period.
2. *Convergence of State Assembly Speakers* – Monday, December 9, 2024
A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative strategies for combating GBV nationwide.
3. *National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 -* Tuesday, December 10, 2024
This summit will conclude the 16 Days of Activism with discussions on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives championed by the House.
The House of Representatives invites all Nigerians to *participate in this historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024.* Participants will receive orange T-shirts—the official colour of the United Nations campaign to end violence against women—symbolising hope for a future free of violence.
*Details of the March:*
• *Date:* Monday, November 25, 2024
• *Time:* 8:00 AM
• *Starting Point:* Speaker’s Car Park, National Assembly
• *End Point:* Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Headquarters
Gender-based violence continues to devastate families and communities across Nigeria. The 10th House of Representatives however, remains steadfast in driving systemic reforms, fostering collaboration, and championing accountability to address this pervasive issue.
Together, let us take a decisive stand for justice, equality, and the protection of human rights, paving the way for a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
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