The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has declared that its nationwide strike, which commenced on Wednesday, will continue indefinitely until the government adequately addresses their demands.
In a communique issued at the end of their national executive council (NEC) meeting in Lagos, NARD emphasized the urgency of their demands and the need for the government to take concrete actions.
NARD’s demands include the immediate release of the circular on the one-for-one policy for replacing exited clinical workers, the prompt payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), and settling all salary arrears and hazard allowances for its members.
“We cannot stand idly by as our members lose their lives and suffer from overwhelming workloads due to the depletion of clinical staff caused by brain drain,” NARD stated in the communique.
The association also called on the medical and dental council of Nigeria (MDCN) to reverse the downgrading of the membership certificate, expressing concerns that it devalues postgraduate medical training in the country.
NARD expressed disappointment in the lack of progress following various meetings with government representatives, agreements, and memoranda, noting that the government has not yet released the circular on the one-for-one replacement of exited clinical workers.
The strike action was prompted by the government’s failure to implement agreements reached with the doctors, which have been pending for several months and even years. NARD’s move aims to draw attention to the critical issues affecting the healthcare sector and the well-being of its members and citizens at large.
“As resident doctors, our commitment is to ensure quality healthcare services for all Nigerians. However, the government’s continuous neglect of our welfare and the healthcare system’s challenges have left us with no choice but to resort to this indefinite strike,” said Dr. Innocent Orji, National President of NARD.
The strike has significantly impacted medical services across the country, with thousands of resident doctors joining the protest. Patients seeking medical attention have faced delays and cancellations of appointments, exacerbating the already burdened healthcare system.
The association has called for urgent action from the government to address their grievances and create an enabling environment for medical professionals to perform their duties effectively.