- the association noted that the suspension was based on noticeable progress in talks
- NARD clarified that the issues in dispute have not been fully resolved
- The association also called for the settlement of several months of unpaid professional allowances owed to its members
National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has called off its planned strike following fresh commitments from the Federal Government to address lingering welfare concerns affecting its members.
The decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council (NEC), where members reviewed discussions with government officials and agreed to suspend the industrial action as a show of good faith and to allow ongoing negotiations to continue, Eko Hot Blog reports.
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In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the association noted that the suspension was based on noticeable progress in talks, particularly assurances on the payment of outstanding salaries, hazard allowances, and steps toward resolving issues surrounding the Medical Residency Training Fund.
While acknowledging the government’s renewed engagement, NARD clarified that the issues in dispute have not been fully resolved.
As a result, the association has given the Federal Government a two-week deadline to deliver concrete and verifiable actions on its demands.
Among the key demands reiterated by the doctors are the immediate reinstatement of the revised Professional Allowance Table, payment of all outstanding salary and promotion arrears, and the prompt release of funds for residency training.
The association also called for the settlement of several months of unpaid professional allowances owed to its members.
NARD warned that it would reconvene after the expiration of the ultimatum to assess the government’s level of compliance.
It added that failure to meet the agreed conditions within the stipulated period could lead to a resumption of the suspended strike without further notice.
The association’s decision comes amid a long history of disputes between resident doctors and the government over poor welfare conditions, delayed salaries, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.
These recurring challenges have continued to strain Nigeria’s health sector, contributing to the migration of medical professionals to countries offering better working conditions and remuneration.
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