Resident doctors are not slaves – NARD
National Association of Resident Doctors NARD
Resident doctors are not slaves – NARD
Abdullateef Fowewe
The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has urged the Federal Ministry of Health and hospital managements to prioritise the welfare of resident doctors across the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, via X, the association expressed displeasure over the treatment of resident doctors, particularly at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja.
The statement says, “Resident doctors are not slaves. Dr. Yomi and Dr. Victor, like many of their colleagues across Nigeria, are the backbone of our health system. Yet, they are subjected to impossible rosters, working every single day without true rest. This is unsustainable, inhumane, and dangerous—both to the doctors and to the patients they serve.
“How can these young doctors remain healthy and mentally stable enough to pass their exams under such conditions? Who will care for their families should tragedy strike from overwork and burnout?
“The Federal Teaching Hospital Lokoja, its CMD, and the HOD of Orthopaedics must immediately review these rosters and prioritize welfare. Beyond this, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare must act decisively to ensure resident doctors across Nigeria are treated with dignity, given fair working conditions, and supported to thrive.
“Nigeria can, and must, do better. The future of our healthcare depends on it.”
