Why we shelved proposed strike – Resident Doctors

Fred Ezeh, Abuja

The National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) has explained why it shelved its proposed nationwide strike that would have worsened healthcare service delivery in hospital across the country.

The group said that management of Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) has re-engaged its members who were disengaged recently, a situation that was at the centre of the group’s grievance.

They were also happy with the response of the federal government in regard to actions on the content of the Memorandum of Terms of Settlement (MOTOS) it had agreed with the government.

NARD President and Secretary General Dr. Ugochukwu Chinaka said in a statement released at the end of emergency meeting in Abuja, on Sunday, that their decision was to protect the health sector and allow for continuous discussion.

The association appealed to President Buhari to assent to Residency Training Programmes (RTP) Act in order to lay to rest all contentious issues that concern resident doctors in Nigeria.

He said: “We believe in advocacy and constructive engagement. That was why we engaged in diligent negotiations and we will explore all avenues to resolve our disputes, having in mind the centrality and importance of patients.”

The association enjoined its members to work assiduously towards the service of patients and the uplift of the entire health sector.