The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its five-day warning strike just two days after it began and has issued a fresh two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its demands.
The strike, which commenced on Friday morning, was suspended on Saturday night. Members of the association were directed to resume duties on Sunday.
Confirming the decision, the President of NARD, Dr. Tope Osundara, said “Some of our demands have been met. The government has promised to look into other issues. Strike suspended; resumption of work tomorrow (today). We did this as a sign of goodwill and to assist Nigerians who are seeking healthcare in our various facilities.”
Prior to the strike, NARD had issued several warnings to the Federal Government. The association first gave a 21 day ultimatum in July, which was later extended by 10 days and expired on September 10. A final 24-hour deadline was then issued before the strike was declared.
Following the suspension of the industrial action, the association has now handed the government a two-week grace period to fulfill all pending commitments.
While some of the doctors’ demands have reportedly been addressed, others remain unresolved, prompting the association to maintain pressure on the government.
The association warned that failure to implement the agreed resolutions within the new timeframe could lead to the resumption of industrial action.
