The Association of Resident Doctors at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital in Awka, Anambra, has suspended its seven‑day warning strike. The decision follows the government’s approval of the doctors’ demands, which include the release of the Medical Residency Training Fund and a 100 percent upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Scale. In a statement signed by ARD‑COOUTH President Dr. Joy Okwumuo and Secretary Dr. Chukwubuike Ifekudu, members are expected to resume duties at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s approval also covers allowances for house officers, rural postings for previously skipped departments, and specialist allowances for resident doctors. The government has agreed to pay accumulated arrears, including the previously skipped 2024 hazard‑allowance arrears. The resident doctors began the warning strike on Thursday to press for better working conditions, improved salaries and benefits.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to work with the hospital’s Chief Medical Director to implement the approved decisions. It emphasized the urgent need to recruit resident doctors and house officers to meet medical college staffing standards and curb brain drain. Additionally, the association called for the accreditation of the Family Medicine, Radiology, and Anaesthesiology departments so members can sit for professional exams.
The suspension of the strike is a significant development, as it will alleviate the suffering of patients and families who rely on the hospital for care. The association expressed gratitude to Governor Soludo, the Head of Service, the Commissioner for Health, COOUTH management, the Nigerian Medical Association, and the National Association of Resident Doctors for their support. The resolution of the strike marks a positive step toward improving resident doctors’ working conditions and addressing broader challenges in Anambra’s healthcare sector, with the government’s commitment expected to enhance the delivery of health services in the state.
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