NMA Supports Resident Doctors’ Planned Indefinite Strike

The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has expressed full support for the nationwide indefinite strike declared by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), describing the doctors’ demands as justified and long overdue.

According to the NMA, the Federal Government has consistently failed to fulfil its promises and address pressing issues affecting healthcare workers and the system at large.

NARD announced the indefinite strike after the expiration of its 30-day ultimatum, effective Saturday, November 1.

Speaking on the development, NMA Secretary-General Dr. Ben Egbo said the association stands firmly behind NARD, noting that both groups share the same concerns.

“We are fully in support of NARD’s decision. Their demands are essentially the same as ours. The government has not treated healthcare workers fairly and continues to make promises it never keeps,” Egbo said.

He criticised the government’s handling of the situation, adding that strikes appear to be the only language the authorities understand.

“Resident doctors have 19 legitimate demands. The NMA, as their parent body, fully supports them. Each time we engage with the government, they promise action but fail to deliver. It’s a cycle of unfulfilled commitments,” he added.

Confirming reports that healthcare workers are owed over ₦38 billion in various allowances, Egbo questioned the government’s priorities.

“The government knows it owes that amount. You never hear of lawmakers being owed such sums, yet essential healthcare workers are left unpaid despite the enormous workload they bear. The system is failing and needs urgent attention,” he said.

When contacted, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s Head of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Alaba Balogun, said he was not authorised to comment on the issue.

NARD’s 19-point demand includes the immediate payment of outstanding 25–35 per cent CONMESS salary arrears, withheld allowances, and the reinstatement of five resident doctors dismissed by the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.

Other demands include implementing an internationally accepted working-hours policy, recruiting more doctors under a one-for-one replacement plan, upgrading hospital facilities and equipment, paying specialist allowances promptly, correcting placement levels for house officers, and ensuring all junior doctors are properly included in the public service salary structure.

NARD also called for a speedy review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure through the Collective Bargaining Agreement Committee, payment of promotion arrears, ending staff casualisation, and enforcing uniform salary circulars across all levels.

The association further demanded the proper recognition of certificates issued by professional bodies and faster issuance of postgraduate qualifications.