NARD Issues Four-Week Ultimatum to Federal Government to Address Outstanding Demands

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a four-week ultimatum to the federal government to address a series of unresolved demands affecting its members. This resolution was reached at the association’s May Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) and Scientific Conference, held from May 26 to May 31, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

In a communique signed by NARD President Dr. Osundara Tope, Secretary-General Dr. Odunbaku Kazeem Oluwasola, and Public & Social Secretary Dr. Amobi Omoha, the association outlined key demands, including:

– Immediate payment of arrears from the 25/35% upward revision of the CONMESS salary structure.

– Full implementation of consequential adjustments to the 2019 and 2024 minimum wage.

– Expedited disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF).

– Completion of the 2023/2024 Accoutrement Allowance arrears.

– Inclusion of resident doctors in the payment of specialist allowances.

– Regularisation and full remuneration of locum doctors.

– Resolution of welfare issues affecting doctors at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC).

– Engagement with the Federal Ministry of Health to curb brain drain and improve employment practices

NARD expressed deep concern over the persistent exclusion of resident doctors from specialist allowances and the ongoing casualisation of medical professionals, which has led to poor remuneration and worsening working conditions. The association also highlighted the alarming shortage of medical personnel in hospitals across the country.