Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors Ends Nationwide Strike, Presses for Government Demands” The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially called off its nationwide strike, marking an end to the labor action that aimed to compel the federal government to address key concerns. NARD members had embarked on the strike as a means of exerting pressure on the government to meet their requests.
Among the demands put forth by the resident doctors were the disbursement of the 2023 medical residency training fund (MRTF), immediate issuance of the circular pertaining to one-for-one replacement, and an upward adjustment to the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS).
Furthermore, the doctors had emphasized the need for the settlement of outstanding arrears encompassing consequential adjustment, hazard allowances, and skipping allowance, among others.
NARD President Emeka Orji, in an interview with TheCable, confirmed the suspension of the strike on Friday evening, with a scheduled return to work for resident doctors at 8 a.m. the following Saturday. Orji stated, “We just suspended the strike. Work will resume at 8 am tomorrow. We will assess the progress made within a two-week period.”
The government’s response to the strike included the approval of a quarterly accoutrement allowance of N25,000 for medical and dental practitioners within federal hospitals, medical centers, and clinics. Additionally, a 25 percent increment in the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS) was sanctioned. However, NARD expressed dissatisfaction with these measures, deeming them insufficient.
In response to the discontent, the association announced its intention to stage peaceful nationwide protests commencing on August 9th.
Subsequently, a dialogue between the federal government and the association’s leadership led to the avoidance of the projected nationwide protest. This development underscores the importance of ongoing communication and engagement in addressing the concerns of medical practitioners in Nigeria.