The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has taken the decision to suspend their nationwide strike, which was initiated to advocate for their demands from the federal government.
Emeka Orji, President of NARD, informed the Newsmen about the suspension of the strike on Friday evening, revealing that the resident doctors are set to resume their duties at 8 am on Saturday.
We will review progress made in two weeks.” The strike was launched on July 26 due to the government’s failure to address the association’s demands.
Among the key demands were the payment of the 2023 medical residency training fund (MRTF), the immediate issuance of a circular on one-for-one replacement, and an upward revision of the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS).
Additionally, NARD called for the settlement of outstanding arrears related to consequential adjustment, hazard allowances, and skipping allowances.
In response to the strike, the federal government took action, announcing the approval of a quarterly accoutrement allowance of N25,000 for medical and dental doctors in hospitals, medical centers, and clinics within the federal public service.
Furthermore, the government sanctioned a 25 percent augmentation in the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS).
However, NARD dismissed the offered allowance and salary increase as insufficient. In light of these developments, the association disclosed plans for peaceful nationwide protests beginning on August 9.
Following discussions between the federal government and the association’s leadership, the proposed nationwide protest
was averted.
