The Nigerian medical landscape remains in turmoil as the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has firmly rejected claims by the Federal Government regarding payment of salary arrears, declaring that their ongoing strike action will continue to paralyze operations in 91 federal tertiary hospitals across the country.
Government Claims Versus Doctors' Reality
In a dramatic turn of events, NARD President Dr. Dele Abdullahi openly contradicted statements from the Federal Ministry of Health, which had announced the approval and payment of ₦25 billion for the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund and outstanding salary arrears.
"The reality on ground completely contradicts these claims," Dr. Abdullahi stated emphatically. "Our members have not received these purported payments, and the so-called 'verified' lists contain numerous discrepancies and omissions."
Strike Enters Critical Phase
The industrial action, which began over unresolved labor disputes, has now escalated into a full-blown healthcare crisis affecting:
- 91 federal tertiary hospitals nationwide
- Thousands of medical procedures and consultations
- Emergency services and specialized care
- Medical training programs for resident doctors
Core Demains Remain Unaddressed
Despite government assurances, NARD leadership maintains that the fundamental issues triggering the strike remain largely unresolved:
- Immediate payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund
- Clearance of outstanding salary arrears dating back to 2015
- Upward review of Consolidated Medical Salary Structure
- Implementation of new hazard allowance
- Payment of skipping arrears
- Increased budgetary allocation to health sector
Nationwide Healthcare Impact
The continuing strike has created a healthcare vacuum in federal medical institutions, forcing patients to seek alternative care in already overstretched state and private facilities. Medical experts warn that the prolonged absence of resident doctors—who form the backbone of hospital operations—could lead to a complete collapse of specialized medical services.
"We cannot in good conscience return to work when the fundamental issues affecting our members and the healthcare system remain unaddressed," Dr. Abdullahi emphasized during a press briefing in Abuja.
Government's Response Under Scrutiny
The Federal Ministry of Health had earlier announced through its Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Jimda Salaam, that payments had been processed and would reflect in doctors' accounts. However, NARD's swift rebuttal has raised questions about the accuracy of government communications and the actual state of resolution efforts.
As the standoff continues, millions of Nigerians face uncertain access to critical healthcare services, with no immediate resolution in sight despite ongoing negotiations between both parties.
