Striking members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) have postponed their nationwide protest following discussions with President Bola Tinubu and National Assembly leaders.
The association had initially planned to commence the protest on August 9, 2023.
Dr. Emeka Orji, NARD’s National President, confirmed the suspension of the protest, stating that the government requested 24 hours to address their urgent demands.
Dr. Orji revealed that despite challenges in convincing members to accept the government’s proposals, NARD has decided to grant the Nigerian government a 72-hour window for resolving the issues.
The association expressed hope that the government would honor its commitments within the stipulated timeframe.
Following meetings with the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, assured the doctors that the administration of President Bola Tinubu would address their demands.
Akpabio appreciated the decision to cancel the planned protest and emphasized the administration’s commitment to the medical practitioners’ concerns.
The ongoing strike by resident doctors stems from unmet demands, including the disbursement of the 2023 medical residency training fund, issuance of the circular on one-for-one replacement, adjustments to the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS), payment of outstanding arrears, hazard allowance, and skipping allowance.
The doctors had initially intended to commence a peaceful nationwide protest on August 9, 2023.