If one wishes to be a medical doctor, there is a rigorous pathway for that – Resident doctors speak against decision by NUC to upgrade degrees of pharmacists and physiotherapists from “Bachelor’s” to “Doctor”
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has criticized the National Universities Commission (NUC) for upgrading degree titles in Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, and Optometry from bachelor’s to “Doctor” status.
NARD warned that this move—implemented by the NUC in January to enhance clinical training and coverage—could create confusion, fuel interprofessional tensions, and increase the risk of quackery in the already strained health system. In a post on X, the association stressed the importance of clear roles in healthcare teamwork and cautioned against granting medical titles without corresponding public education or structural reforms.
They also argued that the decision reflects a growing trend among non-medical health groups to compete with doctors, rather than focus on system improvements. NARD emphasized that globally, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and optometrists are not paid more than doctors and typically do not hold the “Doctor” title without advanced degrees like a PhD. Citing examples from the UK and Germany, the group insisted on maintaining defined clinical roles and governance.
“All health professionals should value their roles,” NARD said. “If someone wants to be a medical doctor, there’s a clear path for that.”
