Association of Resident Doctors, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH-ARD), has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Lagos State Government to implement the Specialist Allowance for Grade Level 14 resident doctors, also known as Senior Registrar 1 (SR1), and pay outstanding salary shortfalls and advancement arrears owed its members.

The association made the demand at a press conference, expressing concern that the Specialist Allowance, which it understood had been captured in the Professional Allowance Table (PAT) approved by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, was not reflected in the August salaries of affected doctors.

President of LASUTH-ARD, Dr Alaba Akerele, said the development had eroded resident doctors’ confidence in assurances previously given by officials of the state government. He explained that the Specialist Allowance was part of the Professional Allowance Table, alongside Duty Allowance, Teaching Allowance and Rural Teaching Allowance.

The doctors also raised concerns over outstanding advancement arrears arising from promotions earned by some members.

Akerele said some affected doctors were promoted in July 2025 and were informed that the financial implications of their promotions would commence in September of that year.

He said the expected payments did not begin as scheduled and that, following several follow-ups, payment eventually commenced in November, leaving outstanding arrears for September and October.

LASUTH-ARD warned that failure by the state government to address the demands within seven days could lead to further action and possible industrial disharmony.

The association, however, appealed to Governor Sanwo-Olu to personally intervene, saying prompt resolution of the issues would promote fairness, equity and quality healthcare delivery in the state.