The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has highlighted a growing crisis regarding the safety of medical staff, revealing that 30 doctors have faced physical abuse in Nigeria over the last 11 months. Dr. Kwarshak Kevin, the association’s second vice-president, noted that this equates to roughly three incidents each month, often involving patients’ family members or security staff.
Dr. Kevin labeled these events intolerable, especially as the nation struggles with a significant brain drain of medical professionals. He urged the Federal Government to introduce specific laws to punish those who attack healthcare workers and to create emergency protection protocols. These safety concerns are central to the union’s decision to launch an indefinite nationwide strike on August 10.
Beyond physical safety, NARD is protesting systemic welfare failures, including house officers experiencing salary delays of up to eight months. Additionally, there are 18 months of unpaid professional allowance arrears. Dr. Kevin also highlighted instances of intimidation against doctors in Lagos who protested the removal of food services for those on call, as well as the denial of exam opportunities for some protestors.
While Dr. Kevin acknowledged government efforts, such as the emergency medical services program, dialysis support, and recruitment initiatives, he emphasized that these actions do not fully resolve the critical infrastructure and welfare gaps. NARD remains willing to negotiate, but insists that their stated grievances must be resolved to avert the upcoming industrial action.
