The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Saturday commenced an indefinite, total, and comprehensive nationwide strike over the Federal Government’s failure to implement agreements previously reached with the association.
NARD President, Dr. Muhammad Suleiman, confirmed the development in a statement, noting that the decision followed a five-hour meeting of the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) held last week.
According to Suleiman, the strike became unavoidable after “repeated failures” by the government to honour its commitments despite several rounds of dialogue, appeals, and ultimata.
“This action has become inevitable following the Federal Government’s repeated failure to honour its promises and implement agreements reached with us,” Suleiman said.
The doctors are demanding improved remuneration, payment of salary arrears, enhanced working conditions, adequate staffing, and the provision of essential medical infrastructure.
Their requests also include a 200 per cent increase in the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), full implementation of the new allowances proposed in July 2022, immediate recruitment of clinical staff, and removal of bureaucratic delays hindering the replacement of exiting doctors.
“Our demands are neither selfish nor politically motivated,” the statement added. “They are aimed at protecting the survival of Nigeria’s health system and the well-being of every citizen who depends on it.”
The association said the excessive workload and poor welfare of medical personnel have continued to undermine the quality of healthcare delivery nationwide.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has moved to avert a prolonged strike, announcing plans to release ₦11.995 billion within 72 hours to settle outstanding accoutrement and other allowances owed health workers.
NARD, however, maintained that the strike decision was taken reluctantly and expressed regret over the disruption of healthcare services, urging Nigerians to support their call for a functional and humane health system.
“This is not a fight between resident doctors and government,” Suleiman said. “It is a struggle for a just and effective healthcare system where doctors can provide quality care with motivation, dignity, and the right tools.”
