Resident Doctors Give FG 21-Day Ultimatum, Threaten Nationwide Strike

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, warning of possible industrial action if longstanding demands affecting healthcare workers are not addressed within the stipulated period.

The warning was issued at the end of the association’s Ordinary General Meeting held in Kano, where delegates from across the country reviewed issues affecting resident doctors and the broader healthcare sector.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, NARD President, Dr. Mohammed Suleiman, expressed concern over the growing number of attacks targeting healthcare workers and medical facilities nationwide.

He said the continued insecurity facing doctors, nurses and other frontline health professionals had become unacceptable and required urgent intervention by government authorities.

According to Suleiman, healthcare workers increasingly face threats, intimidation and violence while carrying out their professional duties, creating an unsafe environment that undermines healthcare delivery across the country.

The association demanded the immediate development and implementation of a comprehensive national framework for the protection of healthcare workers.

NARD argued that such a framework should include security protocols for hospitals, rapid response mechanisms during emergencies and stronger legal protections for medical personnel.

In addition to security concerns, the doctors also called for the full implementation of existing collective bargaining agreements previously reached between healthcare unions and the government.

The association lamented what it described as years of unfulfilled commitments relating to welfare, working conditions and professional development.

Suleiman warned that failure to address these concerns could further worsen the challenges already confronting Nigeria’s healthcare sector, including brain drain, workforce shortages and declining morale among medical professionals.

He stressed that resident doctors remain committed to providing quality healthcare services but insisted that government must demonstrate similar commitment by protecting healthcare workers and honouring agreements reached with stakeholders.

The association said it would review the government’s response at the expiration of the 21-day ultimatum and determine the next course of action, including the possibility of nationwide industrial action.

The latest warning comes amid growing concerns over the state of Nigeria’s health sector, with medical associations repeatedly calling for improved welfare packages, enhanced security and increased investment in healthcare infrastructure.