The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has decided to suspend their planned nationwide protest following a closed-door meeting with Senate officials on Tuesday. The decision to suspend the protest was confirmed by NARD President, Emeka Orji. The protest was initially scheduled to take place on Wednesday.
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, expressed appreciation for the doctors’ decision to suspend the protest and their willingness to consider ending the ongoing strike as well. He assured the doctors that their grievances have been noted and will be addressed once a new Health Minister is appointed to oversee the health sector. Akpabio emphasized that the Senate is committed to achieving a harmonious resolution through consultations and dialogues with relevant authorities.
The doctors’ strike had prompted the Nigerian government to issue instructions for federal tertiary hospitals to implement a “no work, no pay” policy against the striking medical practitioners. In response, the doctors had announced their intention to commence a daily peaceful protest if their demands were not met. However, the suspension of the planned protest indicates a willingness to engage in further dialogue to resolve the issues.
The statement suggests that the doctors and the Senate officials will reassess the situation in 72 hours, indicating a temporary suspension of the strike. The doctors’ grievances and concerns about the health sector’s challenges remain central to the ongoing discussions.
