The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has put on hold its planned nationwide strike scheduled to begin on January 12.
The decision was announced on Sunday in a statement signed by Shuaibu Ibrahim, secretary general of the association.
NARD had earlier declared the strike following resolutions reached at its emergency national executive council meeting held on January 2. However, on January 9, the national industrial court in Abuja issued an interim injunction restraining the association and its members from embarking on any form of industrial action.
In the latest update, Ibrahim said the suspension followed another emergency national executive council meeting held on Sunday, January 11, where the association reviewed its demands and evaluated progress made through engagements with key stakeholders.
According to him, the strike was suspended after firm assurances were received from relevant authorities, largely due to the intervention of Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
He said, “Status of our demands: The report of the earlier committee set up by the federal ministry of health and social welfare (FMoH&SW) has been implemented. Additionally, a new reconciliation committee comprising CCMDs, MoH&SW, and NARD has been established to ensure all our members remain in FTH Lokoja and also to broker lasting peace between ARD FTH Lokoja and MDCAN FTH Lokoja, fostering harmony among parties.”
Ibrahim added that steps had also been taken to address salary and payment-related concerns.
“Verified lists have been forwarded to IPPIS. The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMoLE) has written to the Federal Ministry of Finance (FMoF) and with attention to IPPIS. NARD will continue close follow-up to ensure prompt payment,” the statement said.
He further disclosed that payment documentation had reached advanced stages.
“Lists have been transmitted by the FMoH&SW to the FMoF and Budget Office. Importantly, the Honourable Minister of State for Finance has acknowledged it and NARD is now engaging to ensure a clear and expedited payment plan.”
On issues surrounding entry-level placement, Ibrahim said clarity had also been provided.
“The Director of Hospital Services (DHS) at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoH & SW) is to communicate with the Chief Executives of hospitals regarding a clarification issued by the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF). This clarification is to emphasise that CONMESS 3 is the recognized entry-level.”
The association said it would continue to monitor the implementation of all agreements reached with the government and other stakeholders.
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