In a closed-door session on Tuesday evening, striking members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) engaged in discussions with the Senate’s leadership, signalling a possible conclusion to their two-week-long strike.
Following the meeting, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, alongside other Principal Officers of the Senate, appeared with Dr Emeka Innocent Orji, the national president of NARD, to address journalists.
Dr Orji expressed optimism, stating, “We had a very fruitful meeting with the Senate led by the President of the Senate, and from our discussions with them, we are very hopeful that when we table our discussions today before the NEC, something positive would come out….CONTINUE READING
Dr Orji also highlighted the confidence gained from their interaction with Senator Akpabio, noting that they anticipate a favorable outcome within the next 24 hours.
He revealed that due to the Senate President’s intervention and assurance, they have canceled a planned national protest and intend to decide on the continuation of the ongoing strike soon after their internal discussions.
Echoing this sentiment, Senate President Akpabio expressed gratitude to the medical professionals for not only calling off their intended nationwide protest but also for their efforts towards ending the ongoing strike for the sake of the suffering populace.
Akpabio acknowledged the medical practitioners’ demands and assured them that once a Minister of Health is appointed, the Senate will collaborate with them to swiftly address their grievances.
He emphasized that the administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, holds a positive disposition towards doctors, evident in the numerous medical practitioners appointed to key positions.
Akpabio emphasized that medical practitioners’ strikes should be averted due to their societal impact. He assured that the Senate remains committed to resolving the current impasse through consultative and interactive measures with relevant authorities.
