NARD Sets 21-Day Deadline for FG to Address Attacks on Doctors

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to begin implementing a national framework for the protection of healthcare workers.

The ultimatum was announced at a press briefing to conclude the association’s Ordinary General Meeting (OGM) held in Kano. NARD also declared an industrial dispute with the government over 14 unresolved demands affecting the health sector.

According to NARD president Mohammad Suleiman, the rising cases of assault, intimidation, harassment and violent attacks on doctors pose a serious threat to Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system. “The OGM observed with grave concern the disturbing rise in cases of assault, harassment, intimidation and violent attacks against doctors across the country while discharging their professional duties,” he said.

Suleiman described the trend as “barbaric, unacceptable and a dangerous threat” to the survival of the health system. The association demanded the immediate investigation, arrest, and prosecution of perpetrators of attacks on health workers, and urged the government and security agencies to strengthen protection for medical personnel and facilities nationwide.

“Consequently, the OGM gives the Federal Government a 21-day window to commence concrete actions towards the development and implementation of a National Healthcare Workers Assault Prevention and Response Protocol, as well as the initiation of the necessary legislative process to address this menace,” Suleiman added.