The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has outlined 19 key demands it considers essential to avert a nationwide strike, which is set to commence on Saturday, November 2.
The NARD president, Muhammad Suleiman, announced the demands on Monday, October 27, during a press conference in Abuja, following the expiration of a 30 day ultimatum to the federal government.
The demands reflect the association’s minimum expectations after years of unaddressed grievances affecting doctors and other health workers.
Suleiman stated that resident doctors have already begun ward rounds and patient handovers in preparation for the industrial action, warning that prolonged government inaction has left them with no choice.
He noted that outstanding payments and welfare concerns affect not only resident doctors but all health professionals, including administrative staff.
The government currently owes doctors and other health workers an estimated ₦38 billion in accumulated allowances, some dating back over a decade.
There has also been a 16 year freeze on doctors’ basic salary reviews.
Despite suspending a five day warning strike in September and extending the ultimatum by 30 days, meaningful action has not been taken.
The 19 point demands include, Immediate payment of 25–35% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) arrears and 2024 accoutrement allowances; Reinstatement of five unjustly terminated resident doctors at Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, with full back pay; Development of a humane working hours policy for doctors in line with international best practices; Empowering hospital chief executives to implement
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