The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) commenced a five-day warning strike today after its fresh ultimatum to the Federal Government expired, citing unpaid allowances, salary arrears and unresolved welfare issues.
In a “Declaration of strike action” signed by NARD Secretary-General Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, the association confirmed the industrial action would start at 8:00 a.m. today. “As clearly stated in our earlier communique, the strike is scheduled to commence at 8:00 am today (Friday),” the notice said, adding centres must guide members and expect further updates.
NARD listed specific demands including the non-disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF), payment of five months’ arrears from the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and outstanding specialist and hazard allowances. These unpaid allowances and salary arrears are central to the association’s call for urgent government action.
The decision followed a six-hour virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting after the expiry of a 21-day ultimatum issued in July 2025, which was later extended by 10 days and lapsed on September 10; a final 24-hour window also expired on September 11. That sequence of extensions and elapsed deadlines prompted the move to industrial action.
Resident doctors form the backbone of Nigeria’s public health system, providing a large share of clinical services in federal and state hospitals, and NARD says any strike often paralyses healthcare delivery, leaving patients stranded and hospitals overstretched. The warning strike therefore risks immediate pressure on emergency and inpatient services nationwide.
The E-NEC expressed disappointment at perceived government inaction and said it had no choice but to strike, while promising further communiques to NEC members as the situation evolves. Observers will watch for government engagement and any rapid steps to release the MRTF and settle CONMESS arrears to avert escalation.
