Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Nigerian federal government a 14-day ultimatum to meet the demands of its members or face industrial action.
This was stated in a communique issued yesterday at the conclusion of the association's virtual special National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
“For purposes of emphasis, at the expiration of this further extended ultimatum by July 19, 2023, if all these demands are not met, we cannot guarantee industrial harmony in the Health Sector nationwide,†NARD warned.
The union had postponed its five-day warning strike, which had begun on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, and ended on Sunday, May 21, 2023, after giving the federal government a two-week ultimatum on April 29, 2023.
The doctors had warned of an indefinite strike if the government did not address the issues stated.
The goal of the meeting, according to NARD president Dr. Emeka Orji, was to assess the level of implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) negotiated with the government on May 19, 2023, as well as to discuss other crucial issues involving the welfare of NARD members.
The doctors wanted an immediate 200 percent rise in the CONMESS compensation structure, as well as an upward revision of the associated allowances.
They also want quick payment of the 2023 MRTF, which is included in the approved 2023 budget, in accordance with various agreements negotiated with the administration.
Other demands are “the immediate release and the implementation of the guidelines on one-for-one replacement of clinical staff to cushion the effect of the massive manpower shortage in our various hospitals nationwide.
“The immediate payment of all salary arrears, implementation of the CONMESS salary structure and new hazard allowance and domestication of the Medical Residency Training Act and payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund to our members in the State Tertiary Health Institutions nationwide.â€