The National Association of Resident Doctors, NARD, have rejected the new hazard allowance announced by the federal government for medical doctors and health workers in the country.
The government increased the allowance for doctors from N5,000 to between N32,000 and N40,000 while other health workers like nurses, laboratory workers among others had theirs reviewed to between N15,000 and N34,000 respectively.
A circular with reference number SWC/S/04/S.218/11/406 dated December 22, 2021, and signed by the Executive Chairman of the National Salaries, Wages and Income Commission stated, “Concerning the review of the hazard allowance applicable to health workers in the services of the federal hospitals, medical centres and clinics in ministries, departments and agencies, the hazard allowance was reviewed to a flat rate that ranges from N5,000 to between N15,000 and N34,000 for health workers on the CONHESS salary structure, while doctors on CONMESS had theirs reviewed from N5,000 to between N32,000 and N40,000.”
But the position of the National Association of Resident Doctors’ position in a statement issued by Dr Godiya Ishaya; its National President, indicate the medical union is not satisfied with the review.
The association enjoined the Federal Government to review the rate to prevent the need for further negotiations in the future.
