Doctors on strike halt scheduled protest
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has decided to postpone its planned protest originally set for Wednesday, August 9, 2023.
Innocent Orji, the President of NARD, conveyed this information during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily morning show. However, he emphasized that the association's ongoing industrial action remains in effect.
Orji clarified, "Indeed, we have temporarily suspended the protest that was initially scheduled for this morning (Wednesday). Nonetheless, the strike persists. We will reassess the situation in 72 hours, as per the directive from the National Executive Council."
"Our members are experiencing hardship, and the Nigerian citizens are also undergoing hardship. When there is an insufficient number of doctors within the hospital, the healthcare service delivery system is inevitably impacted. Yet, no one has refuted the validity of our claims."
Orji explained that the government itself established a ministerial committee, which formulated guidelines as early as February this year, but these guidelines have yet to be disseminated.
He mentioned that the issuance of the circular would contribute to alleviating the issue of brain drain, as doctors could be promptly employed upon finishing their education.
Furthermore, he asserted that the government's dedication to fulfilling the Association's requests has been lacking.
The postponement of the planned protest follows a meeting between NARD's leadership and the Senate representatives, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
On July 25, 2023, NARD initiated a "complete and indefinite strike action," citing concerns about the replacement of departed doctors and advocating for a 200% raise in its members' salary structure, among other demands.
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