The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to begin implementing a national framework for the protection of healthcare workers amid rising attacks on medical personnel across the country.
At the end of its Ordinary General Meeting in Kano, the association expressed deep concern over increasing cases of assault, harassment, intimidation, and violence against doctors while carrying out their professional duties, describing the trend as a major threat to Nigeria’s healthcare system.
NARD also declared an industrial dispute with the Federal Government over 14 unresolved issues affecting healthcare workers, including the non-payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), outstanding salary and promotion arrears, unpaid professional allowances, and worsening welfare conditions for doctors.
The association called for the immediate investigation and prosecution of perpetrators of attacks on health workers and urged authorities to strengthen security around healthcare facilities nationwide.
NARD warned that failure to address its demands within the stipulated timeframe could jeopardize industrial harmony in the health sector and trigger further action.
