There have been noise over the NARD strike that commenced on 1st November, concerns about the effects it will have on healthcare delivery, as resident doctors are the major pillar of healthcare in Nigeria. There might even be more noise and uproar as time goes on, because our hospitals will definitely feel it. It is necessary to note that this is not the first time it will happen. Doctors went on strike nationwide in 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, etc.
Excessive Workload
Diving into the cause of these reoccurring strikes. Firstly, doctors are overworked. They are subject to dangerously long duty hours. This poses a risk to their health and patient safety as well. There has been several incidences of doctors slumping and dying at work. This can be traced to the bad economic situation of the country that has made many ‘Japa’, leaving less number to cater for the work of more. And our government has refused to employ more doctors to cushion this.
Poor welfarism
Secondly, despite the overpowering workload, doctors do not get good treatment.The government has not paid arrears from salary reviews and has failed to honor other agreements regarding doctors’ welfare and salaries. Imagine the government still owing doctors their 2024 allowances in November 2025. The system has really been unfair. Funnily, the government entered into these agreements and refused to keep them. What a betrayal!
I recall when doctors went on strike in 2024, to protest the abduction of a colleague. The kidnappers abducted her with her husband. They later released him but detained her. I guess the adopters kept her to cater for their health. Her government only intervened when strife began after 8 months of detention, which later led to her release. There are other similar stories like that that don’t even get to limelight. Doctors cannot continue working if their safety is not guaranteed.
Dilapitating Health Infrastructures
Lastly, the doctors are demanding that hospitals be equipped with adequate facilities and infrastructures. The state of our health facilities is disheartening. It can really be discouraging to work in such environments. They experience extra stress and expose themselves to risks as a result.
NARD strike is not a selfish one. It is definitely legitimate. Yes, we may suffer for it for a while. But it is for the best. It is a call for total reform in our health sector. It is high time our government grant these demands and comply with agreements made. I am hopeful that this indefinite strike will lead to a major revolution in our health sector.
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