Indefinite Strike Commences
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has begun an indefinite strike, effective from 12 am on Wednesday. The decision was made during a meeting of its national executive council (NEC), following an earlier two-week ultimatum issued to the federal government for the fulfillment of their demands.
Key Demands
NARD is demanding various reforms from the government, including the immediate payment of the 2023 medical residency training fund (MRTF) and the release of the circular on one-for-one replacement. Additionally, they seek the payment of skipping arrears and an upward review of the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS) to match the 2014 value.
Further Reforms
Among other demands, NARD also calls for the payment of arrears of consequential adjustment of minimum to the omitted doctors and the reversal of the downgrading of the membership certificate by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN). The doctors are also seeking new hazard allowance, skipping, and the implementation of corrected CONMESS in state health institutions, along with the payment of omitted hazard allowance arrears.
