Resident doctors give government two weeks to resolve welfare disputes
Nigeria’s National Association of Resident Doctors has given the Federal Government a two-week deadline to address unresolved issues involving pay, workload, professional allowances, staffing and safety. The association warned that failure to act could lead to industrial action, after adopting resolutions at its annual meeting in Calabar.
The National Association of Resident Doctors has given the Federal Government two weeks to resolve outstanding welfare and professional issues, warning that failure to act could trigger industrial action. The ultimatum was contained in resolutions adopted at the association’s 46th Annual General Meeting in Calabar on Sunday. NARD National President Ogar Emmanuel Idoko read the resolutions.
The doctors expressed concern about delays in implementing agreements reached with the government. They demanded action on remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages and the general welfare of resident doctors. NARD called for a review of existing remuneration and salary structures, saying the current framework did not adequately reflect prevailing economic conditions.
It also demanded standardised compensation for additional workload caused by staff shortages and reliable data to support payments for duties beyond normal responsibilities. The association raised concerns about attacks on health workers and urged full implementation of policies intended to protect medical personnel. It also linked the continuing migration of doctors and other professionals to worsening shortages and heavier workloads for those who remain in Nigeria.
NARD called on federal and state authorities to improve infrastructure, provide adequate equipment and create safer working conditions. It urged the National Assembly to strengthen healthcare budget provisions and requested prompt payment of salaries and other entitlements owed to house officers. The association said it was not opposed to electronic clocking systems in hospitals, provided they were properly implemented for data management rather than used to punish staff.
It said resolving the disputes would reduce burnout and improve healthcare delivery. The meeting also elected Idoko as national president and established a new National Executive Council.
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