Resident doctors demand stronger protection for healthcare workers and immediate resolution of outstanding welfare issues.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to begin implementing a national framework aimed at protecting healthcare workers from rising cases of assault, harassment, and violence.
Speaking at the end of the association’s Ordinary General Meeting in Kano, NARD President, Mohammad Suleiman, described the attacks on doctors as a serious threat to Nigeria’s healthcare system and called for the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators.
The association also declared an industrial dispute with the government over 14 unresolved demands, including the payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, outstanding salary arrears, professional allowances, and improved welfare for doctors.
NARD further urged the government to address manpower shortages, improve working conditions in hospitals, and fast-track the recruitment of healthcare workers to stem the growing brain drain in the sector.
While commending Governors Ademola Adeleke and Abba Kabir Yusuf for their support of healthcare services, the association warned that failure to meet its demands within 21 days could disrupt industrial harmony and trigger further action.