The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced plans to shut down public hospitals across the country from Thursday in protest against poor working conditions and unmet welfare demands.
NARD President, Dr Osundara Zenith, confirmed the development on Wednesday, noting that the decision followed the expiration of a 10-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government.
He explained that the industrial action was necessitated by what he described as “persistent neglect” of issues affecting members, ranging from shortage of manpower, downgrading of certificates, poor remuneration, unpaid arrears, and the non-release of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) for over 2,000 resident doctors nationwide.
“The strike is not only about the welfare of our members but also about the future of the medical profession in Nigeria. Our hospitals are understaffed, our allowances are pending, and the training of resident doctors is at risk due to the government’s inaction,” Zenith said.
He further disclosed that the action was also in solidarity with resident doctors in Abuja and Oyo State, who are currently on strike over similar grievances.
“Our colleagues in the FCT have already declared a warning strike, while those in Oyo are pressing home their demands. We cannot continue to work under such deplorable conditions,” he added.
The development comes after the Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (ARD-FCTA) shut down public hospitals on Monday, declaring a seven-day warning strike over poor welfare and working conditions.
