LAGOS – Port operators have expressed mixed reactions to the ongoing strike by workers of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The operators, in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos said the strike had some economic effects on cargo examination at the ports.
Mr Chris Osunkwo, the Public Relations Officer of the Tin-Can Island Customs Command told NAN on Friday in Lagos that NAFDAC workers had been absent at the examination bays.
Osunkwo said that there had been efforts to see that officials of the agency signed some examination documents in some instances to at least manage the situation.
Mr Lucky Amiwero, the President, National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, told NAN that NAFDAC workers still maintained their presence at the ports.
According to Amiwero, the strike has not resulted into any hostility.
A customs licensed agent, who pleaded anonymity, said the strike by NAFDAC workers would have adverse effect on the promotion of trade.
The agent said the strike was happening at a time the nation should be guarding against importation of fake and harmful foods and drugs.
Efforts to get the Director of Public Relations of NAFDAC, Mr Abubakar Jimoh to comment on the development failed as he was not reachable on phone.
NAN reports that workers of NAFDAC had embarked on an indefinite nationwide strike since Nov. 10 to protest over unresolved wage structure and unpaid allowances. (NAN)
