The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the federal government a 14-day ultimatum to meet its outstanding demands or face a nationwide strike action. This was announced by the association's new president, Dr. Emmanuel Ogar, at the end of its 46th Annual General Meeting in Calabar. NARD expressed concerns over the government's failure to implement agreements reached on remuneration, career progression and improved conditions of service.
According to NARD, the current salary structure for resident doctors no longer reflects prevailing economic realities, leading to low morale and welfare concerns. The association attributed this to prolonged delays in implementing agreements despite repeated assurances and engagements with the government. Resident doctors are reportedly overburdened with excessive workload due to severe manpower shortages in the healthcare sector.
The situation has been exacerbated by the continuous migration of doctors and other health professionals abroad, leaving those in Nigeria to shoulder additional responsibilities. NARD lamented that this brain drain has worsened the workload and working conditions for resident doctors. The association demands immediate implementation of all pending agreements and prompt payment of salaries and entitlements owed to house officers.
NARD also called for a standardised template for compensation for excess workload and full enforcement of anti-assault policies to protect health workers. The association requested improved hospital infrastructure and equipment, as well as increased budgetary allocation to the health sector. These demands aim to address the welfare concerns and working conditions of resident doctors in Nigeria.
The ultimatum issued by NARD is a warning that failure to act within 14 days will lead to a breakdown of industrial harmony and disrupt healthcare delivery nationwide. The association emphasised that its demands are aimed at improving the healthcare system and ensuring better working conditions for resident doctors. NARD's president, Dr. Emmanuel Ogar, read the communique to journalists at the end of the meeting.
The National Association of Resident Doctors' demands reflect concerns over the welfare and working conditions of healthcare professionals in Nigeria. The association's ultimatum highlights the need for the government to address these concerns to prevent a potential nationwide strike. The government's response to NARD's demands will be crucial in determining the next course of action for the association.
The outcome of NARD's ultimatum will have significant implications for Nigeria's healthcare sector. The association's demands are focused on improving working conditions, addressing welfare concerns and ensuring better healthcare delivery. The government's decision will determine whether a nationwide strike will occur or if agreements can be reached to address NARD's concerns.
Key points
- NARD issues 14-day ultimatum to federal government over unmet demands.
- Resident doctors demand improved working conditions, remuneration and welfare.
- Nationwide strike looms if government's demands not met within 14 days.
