NARD to FG: “Enough Waiting — Fix Our Pay Now!” Doctors’ Strike Hits Day 15
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has urged the Federal Government to immediately conclude the long-stalled Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) as its indefinite strike entered Day 15 on Saturday.
The union also demanded an urgent review of the outdated Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), insisting the current system no longer reflects Nigeria’s economic realities.
In a statement posted on X, NARD wrote:
“Dear Nigerians, Doctors Deserve a Fair Deal! We’ve waited far too long for a CBA a simple written promise for fair pay and clear work terms. Yet the delays continue, while doctors battle rising costs and dwindling morale.
“We demand the immediate conclusion of the CBA and a review of the obsolete CONMESS salary structure.”
vibeslyfe reports that the strike, which began earlier this month, has affected 91 hospitals nationwide, including federal teaching hospitals, specialist institutions, and federal medical centers, disrupting medical services across the country.
NARD said the union’s 19-point demand list is reasonable and necessary for the welfare of doctors and patients.
The list includes the payment of arrears under the CONMESS salary structure, disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, prompt payment of specialist allowances, recognition of postgraduate qualifications, and improved working conditions.
The union stressed that these measures are essential to sustain doctors and maintain a functional healthcare system.
President Bola Tinubu has also directed the Ministry of Health to immediately resolve the strike, noting that the government is addressing the doctors’ demands.
Despite the directive, NARD said delays in finalising the CBA and reviewing salaries have continued to demoralise doctors, many of whom face rising living costs while providing critical medical services.