The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commenced a nationwide five-day warning strike, following what it described as the Federal Government’s failure to address critical welfare and financial issues affecting its members.
The strike, which began at 8:00 am on Friday, comes after a series of unmet demands by the government despite repeated ultimatums and extensions. Resident doctors, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s public health system, provide majority of medical care in public hospitals, and their absence is expected to significantly disrupt healthcare services.
A letter titled “Declaration of strike action” and signed by NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, confirmed the move.
“Good morning, NEC Members, thank you all for your continued cooperation and understanding. As clearly stated in our earlier communique, the strike is scheduled to commence at 8:00 am today (Friday). All Centre leadership is expected to guide their members accordingly. Further updates will be communicated to NEC members in due course,” the statement read.
Among the unresolved issues are:
Non-release of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund
Non-payment of five months’ arrears under the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS)
Unpaid specialist and hazard allowances
The association disclosed that the decision was reached after a six-hour Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting, held virtually, following the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum issued in July. The ultimatum was extended by 10 days but lapsed on September 10. A further 24-hour grace period also expired on Thursday, September 11, without government action.
The doctors accused the authorities of insensitivity, insisting that their members could no longer be subjected to unfair treatment.
Health experts warn that the strike could lead to widespread disruption in healthcare delivery, with many patients likely to face delays and complications due to lack of access to doctors.
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