The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has expressed deep dissatisfaction with the Federal Government over approximately ₦38 billion in accumulated, outstanding allowances owed to doctors and other health workers nationwide, leading to a looming industrial action.
Key Details of the Dispute
- Organisation Making the Complaint: The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
- Total Amount Owed and What it Represents: NARD claims the Federal Government owes an estimated ₦35 billion to ₦38 billion in accumulated allowances to all cadres of healthcare workers (including doctors and administrative personnel). For resident doctors specifically, the outstanding amount is estimated to be between ₦400 million and ₦800 million. The allowances include arrears from the 25 and 35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review, the 2024 accoutrement allowance, and other entitlements, with some errors dating back over 10 years.
- Specific Threat of Action: The association has resolved to commence an indefinite nationwide strike, effective from Saturday, 1 November, following the expiration of its 30-day ultimatum to the Federal Government.
- Reason for the Protest: The strike threat is a direct consequence of the Federal Government’s failure to demonstrate the political will to address NARD’s long-standing 19-point demands, which include the settlement of outstanding financial arrears, poor working conditions, unpaid promotion arrears since 2021, and the continued exclusion of house officers from the civil service scheme. The association also cited the worsening manpower shortage due to the non-implementation of a one-for-one replacement policy for doctors leaving the system.
