The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has raised concerns over worsening manpower shortages in Nigeria’s hospitals, warning that unresolved welfare issues and the continued migration of medical professionals are placing excessive pressure on doctors still working in the country.
The association issued the warning at its 46th Annual General Meeting in Calabar, where it gave the Federal Government two weeks to address outstanding welfare and professional demands or face possible industrial action.
NARD said the shortage of doctors had significantly increased workloads in hospitals, with medical personnel increasingly handling responsibilities beyond their normal duties.
The association called for appropriate compensation for doctors working under the additional burden created by inadequate staffing, while also demanding improved working conditions and better hospital infrastructure.
It further expressed concern over the continued migration of doctors and other healthcare professionals from Nigeria, saying the trend was contributing to staffing gaps and increasing pressure on those who remain.
NARD urged the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to address the factors driving medical migration and take measures to retain healthcare professionals in the country.
The doctors also demanded stronger protection for medical workers following concerns over attacks on healthcare personnel in hospitals.
On remuneration, NARD called for the implementation of outstanding agreements with the Federal Government and a review of existing salary and allowance structures to reflect prevailing economic conditions.
The association said it remained open to dialogue but warned that failure to resolve the outstanding issues within two weeks could result in industrial action and a possible disruption of healthcare services.
NARD also called on state governments to improve working conditions for health workers under their employment, while urging the National Assembly to strengthen healthcare funding.
The association elected new national officers at the meeting, with Dr Ogar Emmanuel Idoko emerging as national president alongside members of the National Executive Council.
