The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has firmly rejected the 25% increment in basic salary and accoutrement allowance proposed by the government.

Instead, they stand unwavering in their demand for the complete restoration of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure to its original value as of 2009 when it was initially approved.

The doctors have made it clear that their ongoing nationwide total and indefinite strike will persist until the government takes substantial steps to address their demands, as outlined in their ultimatum issued on July 5.

During their National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Lagos, themed "LasGIDI 2023" with a focus on "Bullying in Medical Practice: A Matter of Perspective?", the striking doctors stressed their discontent with the proposed 25% increase, considering it as meager and insufficient. The strike will continue until a more satisfactory resolution is reached.

Among their key demands, the doctors call for the immediate release and implementation of the One-for-One policy circular for replacing exited clinical workers.

They express grave concern about the severe depletion of clinical staff in hospitals due to brain drain, leading to overwhelming workloads and adverse consequences for their members' well-being.

Moreover, the doctors draw attention to the non-payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), despite repeated promises from the government.

They urge for prompt payment of all outstanding salaries and arrears, including salary arrears from 2014 to 2016, hazard allowance arrears, consequential adjustment of the minimum wage arrears, and promotion arrears owed to deserving members without further delay.

In their quest for fair compensation and working conditions, the resident doctors remain steadfast in their stand, awaiting tangible actions from the government to address their legitimate concerns and bring an end to the protracted strike.

“To call on the MDCN to reverse herself on the downgrading of the membership certificate as this is an ill wind that blows no one good, adding that continuing on this path would only reduce the value placed on the postgraduate medical training in Nigeria...