NARD GIVES FG 10-DAY ULTIMATUM TO MEET WELFARE DEMANDS OR FACE NATIONWIDE STRIKE

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a 10-day ultimatum to meet its long-standing welfare demands or face a nationwide strike. The warning was contained in a communiqué signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi.

The association recalled that it had earlier issued a three-week ultimatum in July, later extending it by another three weeks to allow engagement with key stakeholders. However, NARD said the government had failed to honour its promises. “The E-NEC condemned the failure of the Federal Government to fulfil its promises, noting with dismay that a substantial number of resident doctors remain unpaid for their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund,” the communiqué read.

The doctors also expressed displeasure with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for downgrading membership certificates issued by the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons, while criticising the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria for its persistent delay in issuing certificates.

Other grievances include the non-payment of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance arrears and the alleged neglect of doctors in some states. NARD commended governors who have paid the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, describing their actions as a sign of commitment to the welfare of medical professionals.

The association warned that its 10-day ultimatum, which expires on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, would be final. “The E-NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days to all relevant government agencies to meet these demands. Failure to do so within this period will leave the NEC with no other option than to embark on a nationwide strike action,” it warned.

NARD’s key demands include the immediate settlement of outstanding allowances and entitlements, full recognition of postgraduate membership certificates, and resolution of welfare issues affecting its members in Kaduna and Oyo States. The association condemned the failure of the Kaduna State Government to honour its commitments to members and the Oyo State Government’s neglect of doctors in LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho.