The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding immediate steps to safeguard healthcare workers from increasing attacks across the country.
The association announced the decision at the conclusion of its Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held in Kano, where it also declared an industrial dispute with the government over 14 unresolved issues affecting doctors and the healthcare sector.
Speaking during the briefing, NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, expressed deep concern over the growing incidents of violence, intimidation and harassment directed at medical professionals while carrying out their duties.
According to him, the escalating attacks are placing additional pressure on an already struggling healthcare system.
“The OGM observed with grave concern the disturbing rise in cases of assault, harassment, intimidation and violent attacks against doctors across the country while discharging their professional duties,” Suleiman said.
He described the development as “barbaric, unacceptable and a dangerous threat” to the continued survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
As part of the resolutions reached at the meeting, the association called for the immediate investigation, arrest and prosecution of individuals responsible for attacks on healthcare workers.
It also urged the government and security agencies to strengthen security measures around hospitals and other medical facilities nationwide.
“Consequently, the OGM gives the Federal Government a 21-day window to commence concrete actions towards the development and implementation of a National Healthcare Workers Assault Prevention and Response Protocol, as well as the initiation of the necessary legislative process to address this menace,” he stated.
Beyond concerns about security, NARD also raised issues relating to doctors’ welfare and outstanding financial obligations owed to medical personnel.
The association demanded the immediate release and payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), noting that eligible resident doctors are yet to receive the fund despite several assurances from relevant authorities.
“The OGM demands the release and payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund to all eligible resident doctors nationwide within the next 21 days,” Suleiman said.
The doctors’ body further called for the settlement of outstanding 25/35 per cent CONMESS arrears and the payment of 19 months of unpaid professional allowance arrears.
It also urged authorities to clear salary and promotion arrears affecting doctors in federal and state-owned health institutions.
In addition, NARD requested the correction of discrepancies observed in professional allowance payments made in May 2026 and the settlement of all related outstanding balances.
The association expressed dissatisfaction with the worsening welfare conditions facing house officers across the country.
According to NARD, delays in salary payments, unpaid arrears and persistent challenges associated with internship placement and onboarding processes continue to affect young medical practitioners.
The group also called for the full implementation of unresolved provisions contained in the Medical and Health Workers’ Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
It urged government authorities to address excessive workloads, prolonged call-duty schedules, casualisation of doctors and what it described as abusive locum appointment practices.
Suleiman further criticised delays by the Federal Character Commission (FCC), arguing that the commission’s failure to issue compliance letters has slowed down recruitment efforts and worsened manpower shortages in healthcare facilities.
“The OGM demands the immediate issuance of a letter of compliance by the Chairperson of the FCC within the next 21 days to facilitate employment of healthcare workers and avert further worsening of the brain drain crisis,” he said.
The association also appealed to federal and state tertiary health institutions to urgently tackle challenges relating to staff welfare, remuneration, infrastructure and workforce shortages.
Particular attention was drawn to unresolved disputes at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), including concerns over call meals and allegations of victimisation of doctors.
While commending the governors of Osun and Kano states for initiatives aimed at improving healthcare delivery, NARD warned that failure to address its demands within the stipulated period could result in further industrial action.
“The Association hereby declares an industrial dispute with the Federal Government on the outlined matters above and cannot guarantee industrial harmony after the 21-day window,” the association stated.
Suleiman explained that NARD’s National Officers Committee would continue consultations with relevant stakeholders throughout the ultimatum period.
He added that the association’s National Executive Council would review developments after the 21 days and determine the next course of action.
