The ultimatum was issued at NARD’s 46th Annual General Meeting held in Calabar, Cross River State, where the association reviewed outstanding agreements and challenges facing resident doctors across the country.
NARD National President, Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko, read the resolutions reached at the meeting, with the doctors expressing concern over what they described as the slow implementation of agreements previously reached with the Federal Government.
Among the issues raised are remuneration, career progression, professional allowances, excessive workload, manpower shortages and the general welfare of resident doctors.
The association called for the immediate implementation of existing agreements, particularly those relating to improved conditions of service and professional development.
NARD also raised concerns over the burden placed on resident doctors as a result of shortages of medical personnel in hospitals. It demanded appropriate compensation for doctors who take on responsibilities beyond their normal duties because of inadequate staffing.
The doctors further called for the prompt payment of outstanding salaries and entitlements owed to house officers and urged the government to establish standardised arrangements for compensating medical personnel handling additional workloads.
The association also expressed concern over the continued migration of doctors and other healthcare professionals from Nigeria, urging the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to address factors contributing to the exodus.
NARD called for stronger protection of healthcare workers, including the effective implementation of measures against assaults in hospitals. It also demanded improvements in hospital infrastructure, medical equipment and working conditions.
The resident doctors urged the government to use the two-week window to resolve the outstanding issues and prevent a breakdown in industrial harmony within the health sector.
The latest ultimatum places renewed pressure on the Federal Government as both sides face another deadline over issues that have repeatedly featured in negotiations between NARD and government authorities.
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