‘We are the unsung heroes’: NAFDAC workers demand fair pay, better conditions

For the men and woman working at the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), their mission is clear: to safeguard the health of millions of Nigerians. Yet, despite their dedication, they say their sacrifices remain largely overlooked.

In a heartfelt appeal to the Federal Government, NAFDAC workers have demanded urgent improvements to their salaries and working conditions. Their call comes in a letter dated February 24, jointly signed by the acting Chairman of the NAFDAC Branch of the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria, Jerry Makeri, and the union’s Secretary, Aledeh Ahmed.

The letter paints a sobering picture of workers who risk their lives daily, from laboratory scientists testing potentially dangerous products to field officers cracking down on counterfeit drug manufacturers, all while receiving what they describe as inadequate compensation.

“NAFDAC staff are the foot soldiers through which all successes in the agency are actualized. They are the unsung heroes and heroines whose tireless efforts and professionalism ensure public health safety,” the letter reads. “However, their salaries and welfare do not reflect their critical role in the country.”

The irony isn’t lost on many. NAFDAC’s work has been instrumental in keeping fake drugs and harmful products off the market. Yet the very people who protect public health face unsafe working conditions and an overwhelming workload. With about 2,000 staff members expected to cover the entire country, they argue that the workforce is stretched far too thin.

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“NAFDAC should have no fewer than 10,000 personnel across the country to effectively carry out its mandate. Additionally, the organogram of the agency should be expanded to ensure a presence in all senatorial zones nationwide,” the union urged.

Beyond workforce issues, the workers are pushing for a unique salary structure, similar to those offered to other regulatory agencies with equally critical functions. They believe NAFDAC’s role in protecting public health aligns closely with national security efforts and their compensation should reflect that responsibility.

“While NAFDAC is not officially a security organization like the police, military, or intelligence agencies, it should be treated like one,” the union argued. “The agency’s responsibilities intersect with national security in several ways, including public health and safety, combating illicit trade, and enforcement and regulation.”

The frustration is palpable. As NAFDAC’s responsibilities continue to grow, from overseeing pharmaceutical products to regulating food, cosmetics, and other consumer goods, the pressure on its limited workforce intensifies. Despite their successes in combating increasingly sophisticated counterfeit operations, workers say they often feel neglected.

So what happens if this plea goes unanswered? With morale already low and staff overburdened, the effectiveness of NAFDAC’s fight against dangerous and fake products could weaken and that’s a risk Nigeria can’t afford.

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