This archive report was first published on 17 June 2020.
Nigeria is grappling with a severe Covid-19 outbreak, with a record 31 coronavirus related deaths reported in 24 hours as the national doctors' strike continues to bite.
On June 16, 2020, Nigeria recorded 31 deaths, the highest number of fatalities in 24 hours, a grim milestone that underscores the devastating impact of the pandemic.
The Nigeria Centre For Disease Control (NCDC) also confirmed 490 new cases, bringing the total number of infections to 17,148.
As the government worries over the spike, its meeting with the striking members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) ended in deadlock.
Health Minister Ehanire Osagie noted that Nigeria is the first country in the world where doctors went on strike during a global pandemic, a stark reminder of the unprecedented challenges posed by the crisis.
Labour and Employment Minister Chris Ngige acknowledged the government's efforts to meet the doctors' demands, including payment of hazard allowance and group life insurance, but the doctors remain unconvinced.
NARD President Aliyu Sokomba said the strike would only be suspended when the government comes up with tangible evidence of meeting their demands.
