The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government to address it's grievances.
This followed a 10-day ultimatum earlier issued to relevant government agencies, warning that members would embark on a nationwide strike if their demands were not met.
Speaking to Daily Trust on Thursday, President of NARD, Dr. Tope Osundara said the decision was reached after a six-hour meeting of the association’s National Executive Council, held virtually on Wednesday.
He said the association acknowledged the government’s promise to address their concerns but insisted on immediate action.
The doctors are demanding immediate payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, and other long-standing salary backlogs.
Others are the payment of the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, prompt disbursement of specialist allowances, and restoration of the recognition of the West African postgraduate membership certificates.
They also called on the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria to issue membership certificates to all deserving candidates, implement the 2024 CONMESS, resolve outstanding welfare issues in Kaduna State, and address the plight of resident doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
While urging the government to expedite action on the demands before them, Dr. Osundara noted that if nothing happens before the end of today (Thursday), the body will commence the strike immediately tomorrow (Friday).