The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to address unresolved welfare and professional issues affecting its members. This decision was made at NARD's 46th Annual General Meeting held in Calabar. The association expressed concerns over delays in implementing agreements reached with the Federal Government. Failure to resolve the outstanding issues within the period could lead to industrial action.
NARD's National President, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, read the resolutions, highlighting the doctors' demands for immediate action on issues relating to remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages, and general welfare. The association called for the implementation of previous agreements, particularly those concerning improved working conditions and professional development. They also urged the government to conclude the review of existing remuneration and salary structures for doctors.
The current salary framework no longer reflects prevailing economic realities, according to NARD. The doctors raised concerns over increased workload caused by manpower shortages in hospitals, demanding appropriate compensation for doctors handling responsibilities beyond their normal duties. The association also called for stronger protection of healthcare workers following concerns over attacks on medical personnel in hospitals.
NARD expressed worry over the continued migration of doctors and other health professionals from Nigeria, saying the trend has worsened staffing shortages and placed more pressure on doctors who remain in the country. The association urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to address the factors contributing to medical migration. They also called on state governments to prioritise the welfare of health workers under their employment and improve infrastructure, equipment, and working conditions in healthcare facilities.
The doctors also appealed to the National Assembly to strengthen healthcare funding and demanded the prompt payment of salaries and entitlements owed to house officers. On electronic clocking systems in hospitals, NARD said it was not opposed to the technology but insisted it should be used for proper data management rather than as a punitive measure against medical workers.
NARD elected new national officers during the meeting, with Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko emerging as the new national president alongside members of the National Executive Council. The association said several agreements and commitments reached with the Federal Government remained unresolved despite repeated engagements. They urged the government to use the two-week window to address the issues and prevent a disruption of healthcare services.
The ultimatum comes as resident doctors prepare for a potential nationwide strike over pay disputes and working conditions. The association's demands highlight the challenges faced by healthcare workers in Nigeria, including inadequate staffing, poor infrastructure, and low remuneration. The government's response to the ultimatum will be crucial in determining the next steps for Nigeria's healthcare sector.
Key points
- Resident doctors in Nigeria have given the Federal Government two weeks to address their welfare and professional concerns.
- The doctors are demanding improved working conditions, proper compensation, and stronger protection from attacks in hospitals.
- Failure to meet their demands may lead to a nationwide industrial action by resident doctors.
