Amanze Chinonye
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commended several state governments for implementing improved welfare packages for resident doctors, describing the measures as critical to strengthening healthcare delivery and addressing the country’s worsening shortage of medical professionals, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement issued on Monday, NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman, singled out the governments of Plateau and Osun states for what the association described as exemplary commitment to the welfare of resident doctors in state tertiary health institutions.
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NARD particularly praised Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, for the full implementation of the Professional Allowance Table (PAT), describing the move as a landmark achievement that reflects the state’s commitment to healthcare workers, improved service delivery and quality patient care.
The association also lauded Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for implementing the Professional Allowance Table, Specialist Allowance, the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), Annual Leave Bonus and Accoutrement Allowance. It said the interventions demonstrate visionary leadership and a genuine investment in the healthcare workforce.
NARD further acknowledged Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, for implementing the Specialist Allowance, Accoutrement Allowance and the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS). However, it appealed to the state government to expedite the implementation of the 2026 MRTF and the newly approved Professional Allowance Table.
The association also commended Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, for approving the CONMESS salary structure for medical doctors in the state.
Similarly, NARD applauded Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for the payment of the 2026 MRTF and Accoutrement Allowance to resident doctors, while encouraging the state government to implement the Professional Allowance Table and Specialist Allowance.
It also recognised the governments of Ogun and Kwara states for paying the 2026 MRTF but urged both administrations to fast-track the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table, Specialist Allowance and outstanding Accoutrement Allowance arrears.
The association called on the governors of Lagos, Delta, Oyo, Gombe and Taraba states, as well as other state governments yet to implement the welfare packages, to approve and implement the Professional Allowance Table, Specialist Allowance, Accoutrement Allowance and the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund for resident doctors in their employment.
NARD said improving doctors’ welfare has become an urgent necessity as Nigeria continues to grapple with a severe shortage of medical personnel, worsening brain drain and poor doctor-to-patient ratios across many states.
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According to the association, better remuneration and welfare packages would not only improve the retention of medical professionals but also strengthen healthcare systems and enhance service delivery nationwide.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with state governments to advance healthcare delivery and improve the welfare, training and professional development of doctors across the country.
It also encouraged resident doctors nationwide to continue bringing welfare and training-related concerns to the association’s leadership, assuring members that it would remain proactive and steadfast in protecting their rights and professional interests.
NARD further appealed to the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, chaired by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, to encourage all state governments to prioritise the welfare of resident doctors and adopt policies that would strengthen the healthcare workforce nationwide.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
