The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has issued the Federal Government a fresh 24-hour ultimatum to meet its pending demands, following the expiration of a previous 10-day deadline on September 10.
The decision came after a six-hour virtual meeting of NARD’s National Executive Council on Wednesday, where the association reviewed the government’s response to earlier demands.
Dr. Tope Osundara, NARD President, said the association appreciated the government’s assurances but insisted on immediate action.
“The Federal Government called us yesterday and promised to address our concerns. After a thorough deliberation, we have decided to give them the next 24 hours to ensure the disbursement of the Medical Residency Training Fund, upgrade our membership certificates, and fulfill our other demands,” he said.
The doctors’ demands include payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, arrears from the 25–35 percent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, specialist allowances, and recognition of West African postgraduate membership certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
They also called on the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria to issue certificates to qualified candidates, implement the 2024 CMS, and resolve welfare issues affecting resident doctors in Kaduna State and Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
Dr. Osundara warned of impending strike action if demands were not met.
“If there is no payment by today, then tomorrow we will commence a nationwide strike,” he said, noting that over 2,000 resident doctors are still awaiting MRTF disbursement.