Since July 26, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has been on an indefinite strike following the expiration of a two-week ultimatum issued to the Federal Government.
The doctors’ demands include the implementation of a one-for-one replacement policy for healthcare workers, discontinuation of the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria’s downgrading of membership certificates, payment of salary arrears, implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, increased hazard allowance, and the domestication of the Medical Residency Training Act.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Kachollom Daju, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, appealed to the doctors to consider the lives of countless Nigerians and end the strike. Daju assured that the government is actively addressing the contentious issues and striving to meet the doctors’ demands.
Daju stated, “Nigerians are dying due to this strike. The health sector is crucial. We urge NARD to end the strike and return to work.”
Efforts have been made at the highest levels of government to engage with NARD and resolve the matter. The government has made progress on some of the issues raised by NARD but appeals for patience in fully addressing all concerns. One such issue involves the payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund, which requires ministerial approval due to budgetary thresholds.
On the issue of the one-on-one replacement of exited doctors, a committee has been established, including representation from the Office of the Head of Civil Service, the Federal Ministry of Labour, the Federal Ministry of Health, and other relevant government agencies. The committee is working to accurately determine and address the personnel changes.
In summary, the plea from the government is for NARD to end their strike for the sake of the lives affected by the ongoing healthcare gap. The government is actively engaged in resolving the issues and urges patience as concrete steps are being taken to meet the doctors’ demands.