Again, resident doctors issue fresh warning, give FG 4-week ultimatum
The leadership of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Friday issued a fresh ultimatum to the Federal Government over the non-implementation of their outstanding agreements on salaries, allowances and welfare as agreed between both parties
The association, after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and scientific conference, which took place in Jos Plateau State said the Nigerian government have four weeks to meet its own side of the bargain.
In a communique issued by its President, Mohammed Suleiman, the association commended the vice president, Kashim Shettima for his timely intervention in the ongoing engagement with stakeholders in the sector and beyond.
Suleiman also commended the FG over the reinstatement of its members who were disengaged from service at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
While appreciating the efforts by the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the integrated payroll and personnel information system (IPPIS) on the outstanding 25 and 35 per cent consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS) and accoutrement allowance arrears, NARD said it is important to note that promotion and salary arrears of its members have been forwarded to the relevant bodies.
The association, however expressed concerns over the delay in the circulation of the directive affirming CONMESS 3 as the approved entry level for medical doctors and the non-payment of members’ professional allowance as provided by law.
Also calling for improved welfare and improved funds for training, the association decried the deteriorating industrial relations at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.
NARD, in the communique also warned that the association will only allow a grace period of four weeks for the government to address the outstanding issues or it may be forced to embark on a complete and indefinite withdrawal of services across the country.
“After exhaustive deliberations and in recognition of the progress made by the Federal Government towards addressing the legitimate demands of Nigerian resident doctors, the NEC has resolved to extend the suspension of the Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike (TICS) for a further period of four (4) weeks as a further goodwill gesture, to allow for the full implementation of the Association’s demands,” Suleiman said in the communique.
