Breakthrough in Negotiations: Striking Doctors Suspend Protest as Talks Progress

In a surprising turn of events, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has decided to suspend its scheduled nationwide protest following a series of constructive meetings with high-ranking government officials, including President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly.

The decision to temporarily halt the protest, initially set to begin on August 9, 2023, comes as the government requested a 24-hour window to address the doctors’ pressing demands.

Confirming the suspension of the protest, Dr. Emeka Orji, the National President of NARD, stated in a telephone conversation with Vanguard that the government had sought additional time to address the urgent issues raised by the doctors.

Dr. Orji acknowledged the challenge in convincing their members to accept the outcome of the discussions with the government. Nonetheless, NARD, in its commitment to dialogue, has extended a 72-hour grace period for the government to take action before reviewing their stance.

Dr. Orji emphasized the series of meetings that took place with the presidency and the Senate, both at the presidential villa and with Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other prominent members of the National Assembly. The government’s active intervention in the matter prompted NARD to reevaluate its position on the planned protest.

“Our members everywhere have printed banners; they were ready to mobilize this morning,” Dr. Orji stated, underscoring the strong determination of the doctors. He expressed hope that the government would diligently work to uphold its promises within the given timeframe to prevent further escalation.

The negotiations have resulted in a sense of optimism among the striking doctors. Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured the doctors that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to addressing their demands. Acknowledging the doctors’ decision to cancel the planned protest and strike, Akpabio expressed gratitude on behalf of the Senate and the masses who stand to benefit from a swift resolution.

He assured the doctors that their grievances were duly noted and that immediate action would be taken upon the appointment of a health minister. Akpabio highlighted the doctors’ favorable relationship with President Tinubu’s administration, exemplified by the substantial representation of medical practitioners in his cabinet.

The striking doctors had embarked on an indefinite strike due to the government’s failure to meet their key demands. These demands include the payment of the 2023 medical residency training fund, the release of the circular on one-for-one replacement, an upward revision of the consolidated medical salary structure (CONMESS), payment of outstanding arrears, hazard and skipping allowances, and other critical issues affecting the medical profession.

As the medical community and the government navigate this crucial juncture, the temporary suspension of the planned protest reflects a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and seek a viable solution that serves the interests of both parties while safeguarding the well-being of the public. The next 72 hours will determine the trajectory of this evolving situation and its implications for the Nigerian healthcare landscape.