NARD Rejects Allowance Circular, Calls it Disrespectful and Chaotic

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has strongly opposed a recent circular issued by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, which reviewed the allowances of Medical and Dental Officers in the federal public service.

The circular, dated June 27, 2025, and referenced SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646, has sparked widespread criticism within the medical community. Major professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and the Medical and Dental Consultants’ Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), have expressed disapproval of the review.

NARD’s response comes shortly after the NMA gave the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to withdraw the circular and address other pending demands to prevent an industrial action in the health sector.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Dr. Tope Osundara, and Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, NARD described the circular as disrespectful and poorly thought out.

“The content of the circular is preposterous, fails to address the needs of Nigerian doctors, and is at complete variance with the National Policy on Health Workforce Migration,” the association stated.

NARD further criticised the government’s approach to medical professionals, citing longstanding issues in the sector.

“It bespeaks the level of insouciance that has repeatedly been shown towards Nigerian doctors, who sacrifice their time and effort in the midst of poor working conditions, shortage of manpower, and limited infrastructure,” the statement added.

The association has joined other stakeholders in calling for the immediate withdrawal of the circular, warning that continued neglect of doctors’ welfare could worsen the brain drain crisis in the health sector.