The Edo State Government has opened strategic talks with the Association of Resident Doctors under Edo State Government Employment (ARD EDGE) to address pressing healthcare challenges following a five-day warning strike.
The meeting, convened by Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, on August 21, at the Ministry’s headquarters, was aimed at tackling doctors’ grievances and sustaining patient care.
Dr. Oshiomhole commended the doctors for agreeing to dialogue despite the strike and assured them of Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to their welfare.
He highlighted recent recruitment of over 1,400 health workers and plans for an incentive-based remuneration model, which would allow doctors to earn percentages of facility-generated revenue alongside their salaries.
ARD EDGE President, Dr. Peter O. Evbuomwan, listed grievances including stagnated promotions, poor pay compared to federal colleagues, deplorable house officers’ quarters, and delayed disbursement of the Medical Residency Training Fund.
He warned that these issues had worsened attrition, with many doctors leaving for federal service or abroad.
Special Adviser on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, and Permanent Secretary, Dr. Stanley Ehiarinmwian, disclosed that inspections had been carried out on house officers’ quarters with relocation plans underway.
They also confirmed that promotions would soon begin following new appointments to the Civil Service Commission.
Both officials appealed to doctors to suspend their strike, noting its impact on patients, while ARD EDGE promised to consult members before reverting.
The meeting ended on a cordial note with both sides reaffirming commitment to resolving all issues.
