The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC,, has responded to allegations surrounding the agency’s promotion process and staff vacancies, stating she is not responsible for the limited promotion slots.
In a statement issued by NAFDAC’s Media Consultant, Mr. Olusayo Akintola, Adeyeye clarified that the agency does not control the number of promotions or vacancies available, which are determined by the Head of Service of the Federation, HOS. The agency’s role, she explained, is to conduct the necessary exams for promotions, while the HOS is in charge of approving the vacancies the government can fund.
The clarification follows an indefinite strike initiated by NAFDAC workers on October 7, led by staff unions such as the Senior Staff Association of Statutory Corporations and Government-Owned Companies, SSASCGOC, and the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria. The unions accused management of withholding promotions for staff who had qualified due to alleged limitations on “vacancy slots” from the Head of Service. Additionally, they raised concerns about unpaid statutory arrears and benefits for some employees hired in 2022.
In response, Adeyeye rejected the accusations, stating that NAFDAC has adhered to all protocols regarding the payment of arrears and estacode. She emphasized that the agency’s estacode policy is consistent with other agencies, with allowances being paid once the necessary travel documentation is provided. “We have never owed any staff any travel allowance,” she stated.
Adeyeye’s statement aimed to reassure staff that the agency is committed to their welfare, and that the promotion process is dependent on government budget allocations rather than the agency’s discretion.
READ ALSO: NAFDAC workers begin indefinite strike over welfare issues
Credible News recalls that SSASCGOC, representing workers of NAFDAC, had declared an indefinite strike on October 7, after the breakdown of negotiations with the agency’s management over unresolved welfare concerns.
In a communique issued on October 4, the union expressed frustration after multiple meetings with management failed to address critical issues such as promotions, salaries, and general staff welfare. The communique, referenced as SSASCGOC/NAFDAC/COMMUNIQUE/VOL.1, stressed the necessity of the strike after the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given on September 20, 2024.
The union emphasized that this industrial action will persist until all demands outlined in the communique are fully met. Workers have been instructed to vacate their offices and remove personal belongings, as entry into any NAFDAC premises will be prohibited for the duration of the strike.
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