President Tinubu Lifts “No Work, No Pay” Order on Resident Doctors

In a significant development, President Bola Tinubu has granted a waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” order that had been imposed on the striking members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) since August 1, 2023.

The strike had commenced on July 26, 2023, and its impact was substantial.

A Presidential Act of Mercy

This decision from the President, which was revealed through a statement issued by presidential spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, is based on the principle of the Presidential Prerogative of Mercy.

This move acknowledges the importance of addressing the grievances of the striking doctors and resolving the issue effectively.

Resolution through Dialogue

The statement highlights the constructive engagements that transpired between the Federal Government and NARD, culminating in the calling off of the strike by the Resident Doctors on August 12, 2023.

Initially, the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation had been directed to withhold the salaries of striking NARD members for the 17 days of their industrial action.

Granting of an Exceptional Waiver

In light of the successful implementation of the agreed-upon terms during the negotiations between the Resident Doctors and the Federal Government of Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has issued a directive for an exceptional last waiver of the “No Work, No Pay” order on Resident Doctors.

This waiver allows the NARD members to receive the salaries that were previously withheld during the 17-day strike period.

Conditions for the Waiver

President Tinubu’s directive comes with specific conditions. It mandates that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, along with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, must establish a Document of Understanding (DoU).

This document will solidify the understanding that this exceptional waiver, granted by the President, will be the final one extended to the National Association of Resident Doctors and all other Health Sector Unions.

This decision represents a significant step towards resolving the labor dispute and ensuring that healthcare services can resume without further disruptions.