By Iradat Abdullateef
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has faulted claims by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment that the Federal Government has met most of its demands, insisting that the ongoing nationwide strike continues.
A Business Day report on Wednesday quoted the ministry as saying that 19 out of NARD’s 20 demands had been addressed, including the 25–35 per cent upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and the 2024 accoutrements allowance.
But in a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman; Secretary-General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Abdulmajid Yahya Ibrahim, NARD described the claims as “inaccurate, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to undermine the struggle of Nigerian doctors.”
The association said its Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting reviewed the government’s claims and concluded that none of its 19 core demands has been fully or verifiably met.
“What the Ministry characterises as progress are unfulfilled promises, uncommenced payments, and newly formed committees — the same cycle of delay and deception that triggered this strike,” the statement said.
NARD noted that contrary to the ministry’s assertions, its members have not received the new CONMESS payments or accoutrement allowances.
“An announcement of intent is not a substitute for a credited salary,” the association said.
On outstanding arrears in several hospitals, including Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, FMC Owo, and University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, NARD said government’s admission that lists were “still being compiled” was proof of long-standing neglect.
The association also rejected the ministry’s claim that it refused to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, saying it would not endorse an MoU “built on unfulfilled promises” without tangible, time-bound commitments.
NARD reiterated that the nationwide, indefinite strike that began on November 1 would continue until government meets its minimum demands. These include:
Immediate reinstatement and full compensation of five sacked doctors at FTH Lokoja
Immediate payment of corrected professional allowances and outstanding arrears
Full implementation of the one-for-one replacement policy
Payment of specialist allowances and resolution of all unresolved welfare issues
The doctors accused the ministry of violating labour laws and issuing “press releases filled with hollow victories,” while frontline health workers continue to suffer.
“NARD remains open to dialogue, but it must be result-oriented. The government must shift from crafting misleading statements to taking concrete action. The health of our nation is at stake,” the statement concluded.
