In a communique on Sunday, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has accused Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) of hospitals of delaying the payment of its N25,000 quarterly accoutrement allowance approved by the Federal Government.
The association issued the communique issued following the conclusion of its National Executive Council meeting and health summit held in Abuja.
The doctors called on the government to hasten the implementation of the approved policy.
Recall that the Federal Government had approved the payment of N25,000 of peculiar allowance for medical and dental doctors in hospitals, medical centres, and clinics in the federal public service.
The government made this known in a letter titled, “Accoutrement allowance for medical and dental doctors in hospitals, medical centres, and clinics in federal MDAs,” dated July 26, 2023.
Meanwhile, NARD, in its communique signed by its President, Dr Dele Abdullahi; Secretary-General, Dr. Anaduaka Christopher; and Public & Social Secretary, Dr John Egbe, noted that Chief Medical Directors and Medical Directors of tertiary health institutions are yet to commence payment of the approved accoutrement allowance.
“The NEC observed with dismay the non-compliance of the Federal Government and Ministry of Finance concerning the upward review of CONMESS and other allowances.
“The NEC observed with surprise the non-compliance of CMDs/MDs of tertiary health institutions to commence payment of the approved accoutrement allowance.
“The NEC observed with dissatisfaction the prolonged non-payment of skipping arrears due to her members. The NEC observed rather regrettably, the delayed payment of salary and promotion arrears of some of her members, a situation she seriously frowns at,” the communique read in part.
Similarly, the association also called on the government to implement the upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.
“We call on the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to mandate CMDs/MDs of all tertiary health institutions to pay the Accoutrement allowance to our members as circularised.
“The NEC demands that all state Governors adopt the reviewed CONMESS and commence the process of implementation; calls on the Federal Government to expedite payment of all salary, and promotion arrears accruable to members.
“NEC calls on the Federal Government to enhance security measures in the nation, particularly within the vicinities of hospitals and workplaces,” the communique read.