Resident Doctors Give Two-Week Ultimatum to FG Over Unmet Demands

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to address outstanding welfare and professional issues affecting its members.

The association issued the ultimatum at the end of its 46th Annual General Meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State, on Sunday.

NARD warned that failure to resolve the issues within the two-week period could lead to industrial action.

The association expressed concern over delays in implementing agreements previously reached with the Federal Government, saying several commitments remained unresolved despite repeated engagements.

Among the issues raised were remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages and general welfare.

NARD called for the immediate implementation of existing agreements aimed at improving doctors’ working conditions and professional development.

The association also urged the government to conclude the review of existing remuneration and salary structures for doctors, arguing that the current framework does not adequately reflect prevailing economic conditions.

Resident doctors further raised concerns about increasing workloads resulting from shortages of medical personnel in hospitals. They demanded appropriate compensation for doctors performing duties beyond their normal responsibilities.

NARD called for standardised arrangements for compensating excess workloads and reliable data to support the assessment and payment of doctors carrying additional responsibilities.

The association also expressed concern over attacks on healthcare workers and called for stronger implementation of measures designed to protect medical personnel in hospitals.

It urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to address factors contributing to the migration of doctors and other health professionals, which it said had worsened staffing shortages and increased pressure on those remaining in the country.

The doctors also called on state governments to improve the welfare of health workers under their employment and provide better infrastructure, equipment and working conditions.

NARD urged the National Assembly to strengthen healthcare funding and called for the prompt payment of outstanding salaries and entitlements owed to house officers.

On electronic clocking systems in hospitals, the association said it was not opposed to the technology but maintained that it should be used for accurate data management rather than as a punitive measure against medical workers.

NARD urged the Federal Government to use the two-week window to resolve the outstanding issues and avert disruption to healthcare services.

The association also elected new national officers during the meeting, with Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko emerging as its new national president.