The Federal Government has fixed Wednesday to meet with the leadership of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, who convened the meeting said it would hold at 12 noon on September 6 in place of November 2 as earlier planned.

Nigige explained in a statement on Monday that the doctors had reached an agreement with the Federal Ministry of Health on their six-point demand with timelines duly signed.

He, however, expressed disappointment and shock at what he described as the “sudden U-turn” by the leadership of the association and asked them to go back to work.

“In view of this unfortunate development, the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by the Trade Dispute Act 2004, has apprehended the ongoing strike by NARD,” said the statement signed by the deputy director of Press at the Ministry, Samuel Olowookere.

“Consequently, the meeting between NARD and government earlier scheduled for November 2, 2017, is now convened for Wednesday, September 6 by 12 noon at the Conference Room of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment.

“All stakeholders are implored to attend this crucial conciliation meeting. The health and well-being of Nigerians are cardinal to President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Hence, every measure necessary shall be taken to restore normalcy.”

The meeting was reconvened hours after the leadership of the association announced the commencement of a nationwide industrial action.

The decision was reached at the doctors’ National Executive Council meeting which lasted from 7:00 pm on Sunday until the early hours of Monday.

The doctors vowed that they would not end the strike until all their demands were met by the Federal Government. (Channels TV)