After years of relentless pressure, Nigeria’s resident doctors are drawing the line.
From October 1, 2025, they will limit shifts to 24 hours, seeking to prevent exhaustion and safeguard their lives.
Tragedy Sparks Reform
This decision came after young doctor Oluwafemi Rotifa reportedly died in September, which shocked colleagues and sparked urgent calls for reform.
Policy Protects Doctors Live
Therefore, NARD declared that the policy protects doctors’ lives and reflects the Hippocratic Oath’s principles of self-preservation and safe medical practice.
Furthermore, Nigeria has over 240 million people but only 11,000 resident doctors, forcing them to work extremely long hours under unsafe doctor-to-patient ratios.
Resident Doctors Long Hours Of Work
Consequently, doctors often exceed 100 hours weekly, with surgical residents surpassing 120 hours, completing four to five 24-hour calls every week.
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As a result, excessive workloads threaten both patient safety and doctors’ mental, physical, and emotional health, NARD emphasised.
Meanwhile, NARD praised doctors who continue practising in Nigeria despite mass emigration, calling them patriots and heroes who deserve protection and fair pay.
In conclusion, the 24-hour shift limit aims to prevent further tragedies, safeguard doctors’ wellbeing, and promote a more humane, sustainable healthcare system.
