FG, Resident Doctors Reach Agreement as NARD Says Key Demands Have Been Addressed

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) says it has reached a significant agreement with the Federal Government over outstanding welfare and remuneration issues, following a high-level meeting convened by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

Speaking after the meeting, NARD President, Dr Muhammad Usman Suleiman, expressed optimism over the outcome, stating that the association’s major concerns had been addressed.

“Our matters are solved. Timelines have been agreed, and the person who invited us has never failed resident doctors,” Suleiman said.

According to the resolutions reached, the Federal Government and NARD agreed on a one-week timeline for implementing salary adjustments, promotions, and other outstanding welfare-related issues affecting resident doctors.

The government also issued a standing directive mandating that house officers receive their salaries before the 10th of every month, a move aimed at ending persistent delays in salary payments.

On outstanding entitlements, the government reaffirmed its commitment to clearing promotion arrears and resolving the 19-month backlog of professional allowances, with implementation timelines expected to be communicated to the association.

In addition, the Ministries of Labour and Health were directed to fast-track the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) process to ensure the necessary budgetary provisions are made for implementation in the next fiscal year.

The meeting also addressed concerns over the safety of healthcare workers. The Federal Government pledged to strengthen security in public hospitals, issue directives to create safer working environments, and intensify public awareness campaigns against assaults on medical personnel.

Furthermore, the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, pledged support for legislation that would classify assaults on health workers as aggravated offences, providing stronger legal protection for medical professionals.

While welcoming the outcome of the meeting, NARD said its National Executive Council (NEC) would review the agreements before making a final decision on the ongoing industrial action.