The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a 14-day ultimatum to address outstanding welfare and professional issues or face possible nationwide industrial action.
The ultimatum was contained in resolutions reached at the association’s 46th Annual General Meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State, and read by its newly elected National President, Dr Emmanuel Ogar Idoko.
NARD expressed concern over delays in implementing agreements previously reached with the Federal Government, particularly those relating to remuneration, career progression, professional allowances and improved conditions of service.
The doctors also called for a review of the existing salary structure, saying it no longer adequately reflects prevailing economic realities.
They demanded compensation for resident doctors handling excessive workloads due to manpower shortages, as well as a standardised system for calculating and paying such compensation.
The association further raised concerns over attacks on healthcare workers and called for stronger enforcement of measures designed to protect doctors and other medical personnel in hospitals.
NARD also linked the shortage of medical personnel to the continued migration of doctors and other health professionals abroad, urging the Federal Government to address the factors driving the trend.
The association said the government should use the 14-day window to resolve the outstanding issues and avert another disruption to healthcare services nationwide.
