The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Friday commenced a five-day warning strike, following the expiration of its latest ultimatum to the Federal Government over long-standing issues including unpaid allowances, salary arrears, and unresolved welfare concerns.
The association declared the industrial action after what it described as continued government inaction on critical demands affecting the welfare of its members.
Resident doctors are a vital component of Nigeria’s public healthcare system, delivering the bulk of clinical services in both federal and state hospitals. Strikes by the association often lead to major service disruptions, leaving patients stranded and hospitals overwhelmed.
In a circular titled “Declaration of Strike Action” and signed by NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, the association formally confirmed the commencement of the strike.
“Good morning, NEC members. Thank you all for your continued cooperation and understanding,” the statement read. “As clearly stated in our earlier communiqué, the strike is scheduled to commence at 8:00 a.m. today (Friday). All centre leadership is expected to guide their members accordingly. Further updates will be communicated to NEC members in due course.”
Among the unresolved issues are the non-disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, payment of five months’ arrears under the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), and outstanding specialist and hazard allowances.
NARD’s decision followed a six-hour virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting, held after the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum initially issued in July 2025, which was later extended by an additional 10 days. That extension expired on September 10, prompting the association to issue a final 24-hour notice, which lapsed on Thursday, September 11.
The E-NEC expressed disappointment that, despite multiple extensions and warnings, the Federal Government had failed to act on critical welfare concerns. The association said it had been left with no option but to proceed with the strike.
