The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a two-week ultimatum to chief medical directors (CMDs) and managing directors (MDs) to pay the accoutrement allowance owed to their members. Failure to meet this demand will result in a nationwide strike.
Following the NARD general meeting in Kaduna, a communiqué signed by the organization’s president, Dr. Dele Abdullahi Olaitan, secretary general, public and special secretary, and physician, Dr. Anaduaka Christopher Obinna, was released, which included this directive.
Key points from the meeting include:
- Ultimatum for Allowance Payment: NARD has mandated all its branches to pressure CMDs and MDs to settle outstanding accoutrement allowances within two weeks.
- Elimination of Casualization: The association called for the end of casual employment practices for doctors, advocating for equitable and secure employment conditions.
- Payroll System Upgrade: NARD urged healthcare facilities to accelerate their transition to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to improve payroll efficiency.
- Response to Assaults: The doctors declared that any assaults on medical workers would lead to an immediate withdrawal of services until the safety of the affected area is assured. They also urged the National Assembly to pass laws criminalizing assaults on healthcare professionals.
- Examination Fees: The association requested reduced examination fees for the West African Colleges of Surgeons and Physicians to facilitate resident doctors’ registration for exams.
NARD’s position draws attention to the continued difficulties encountered by resident physicians in Nigeria, stressing the need for better working conditions, prompt allowance payments, and the security of healthcare workers.
The NARD ultimatum serves as a wake-up call for the healthcare sector in Nigeria. The association’s demands—which include better working conditions, the elimination of casual employment, and the payment of accoutrement allowances—evidence the pressing need for structural change. There is a chance for big change even though there are serious risks associated with a potential statewide strike. The government and hospital administration may work toward developing a more equitable and efficient healthcare system that satisfies the requirements of patients and medical professionals by proactively addressing these challenges. The future of healthcare in Nigeria could suffer greatly if nothing is done now. The time for action is now.