The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to address its outstanding demands or face the possibility of a nationwide strike.
The ultimatum was contained in a communique read by the newly elected NARD President, Dr. Emmanuel Ogar, after the association's 46th Annual General Meeting (AGM), which ended in Calabar.
NARD Demands Implementation of Outstanding Agreements
NARD said the Federal Government had yet to fully implement several agreements previously reached with the association.
According to the resident doctors, the outstanding issues cover areas including remuneration, career progression, professional allowances and improved conditions of service.
The association said repeated assurances and engagements with government had not resulted in the full implementation of the agreements.
NARD expressed concern that the prolonged delay was affecting the welfare and morale of resident doctors working in hospitals across the country.
Doctors Raise Concerns Over Salary and Workload
The association also complained that the existing salary structure no longer adequately reflects prevailing economic conditions.
NARD said resident doctors are increasingly carrying heavy workloads because of severe shortages of medical personnel in the country's health facilities.
According to the association, the situation has been further complicated by the continued migration of doctors and other healthcare professionals abroad.
The doctors said those remaining in Nigeria are consequently being required to take on additional responsibilities, increasing pressure on an already stretched workforce.
NARD Lists Key Demands
Among the demands contained in the communique are the immediate implementation of all outstanding agreements between the Federal Government and the association.
NARD also demanded:
Prompt payment of salaries and outstanding entitlements owed to house officers.
A standardised template for compensating doctors for excess workload.
Full enforcement of anti-assault policies designed to protect healthcare workers.
Improved hospital infrastructure and medical equipment.
Increased budgetary allocation to the health sector.
Improved welfare and working conditions for resident doctors.
14-Day Deadline Issued
NARD warned that failure by the Federal Government to address the outstanding issues within 14 days could result in a breakdown of industrial harmony.
The association said such a development could affect healthcare delivery across the country.
Resident doctors play a major role in Nigeria's public healthcare system, particularly in teaching hospitals and other tertiary health institutions where they provide medical services while undergoing specialist training.
Nationwide Strike Remains a Possibility
The ultimatum means the Federal Government now has a limited period to engage with NARD and address the issues raised by the association.
If the demands are not resolved within the stated timeframe, NARD has indicated that it could resort to industrial action.
The development adds to the continuing debate over healthcare funding, doctors' welfare, medical workforce shortages and the migration of Nigerian healthcare professionals.
The outcome of discussions between the Federal Government and NARD in the coming days will determine whether the threatened nationwide strike is averted.
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