The Federal Government has made a heartfelt plea to the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to put an end to its ongoing warning strike. This appeal was issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, during a crucial meeting with leaders of NARD in Abuja. Onyejeocha emphasized that the government is actively working to address the concerns raised by the association.
The backdrop to this plea is the seven-day warning strike declared by NARD. The strike is in protest against the abduction of some of its members, with a particular focus on Dr. Popoola Ganiyat, who was taken hostage eight months ago. The association’s decision to strike highlights the severity of the situation and the urgency of addressing the safety concerns of medical professionals in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Friday, Patience Onuobia, the Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, communicated the minister’s position. Onyejeocha assured that the government is deeply committed to the safety of its citizens and is taking serious steps to address the issues raised by the doctors.
During the meeting, Onyejeocha urged NARD members to consider their crucial role in healthcare and the potential consequences of the strike on patient lives. She stressed that while the doctors’ grievances are acknowledged, the ongoing strike could negatively impact patients who require urgent medical attention. The minister emphasized that the health and lives of individuals depend significantly on the availability of medical professionals, and any disruption in their services can lead to severe consequences.
Onyejeocha explained that President Tinubu has been actively engaging with security agencies to resolve the issue and his efforts include increasing security measures around hospitals to ensure the safety of both patients and healthcare workers to provide a safer working environment for medical professionals and to prevent further incidents of abduction.
She assured NARD that President Tinubu remains dedicated to protecting lives and property, and is working diligently to ensure that such distressing conditions do not continue and the government is keen on addressing the underlying issues that led to the strike and is committed to finding a resolution that satisfies both the doctors and the public.
The Minister’s appeal included a direct request to NARD to reconsider their decision to extend the warning strike. She pointed out that while the strike is a significant action, extending it for seven days is excessive. The impact of the strike on patients who are in urgent need of medical care was a key concern in her appeal.
In her statement, Onyejeocha expressed sympathy for the families of the kidnapped doctors who have tragically lost their lives. She acknowledged the pain and suffering experienced by these families and conveyed the government’s empathy and support.
The situation remains fluid, and ongoing discussions between NARD and the government are expected to continue as both parties work towards a resolution that addresses the safety concerns of doctors and ensures the continued provision of essential medical services to the public.
