The Federal Government has commenced the payment of long-awaited salary arrears owed to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), following the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).

NARD’s Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim, confirmed the development in a letter to members, noting that the arrears—covering between one and six months for some doctors—are already being disbursed.

“The leadership of NARD… is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears… has commenced,” Ibrahim stated.

Several doctors have reportedly acknowledged receiving their payments, while others are expected to be credited in due course.

Ibrahim, however, disclosed that the August component of the arrears may experience slight delays due to administrative issues.

“Payments for August are currently facing a few challenges that are being addressed… the August arrears may be delayed by about a week or two,” he added, urging affected members to remain patient.

The CONMESS review, which governs salary adjustments for medical and dental officers in the public sector, has historically been a source of tension between doctors and the government, with delays often triggering industrial actions.

Resident doctors, who play a critical role in Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system, have repeatedly raised concerns over unpaid salaries, poor working conditions, and the increasing migration of medical professionals abroad.

The payment of the arrears is seen as a step towards addressing these concerns and preventing potential disruptions in the health sector.

Ibrahim advised members with unresolved payment issues after the disbursement process to report through their respective centres for prompt resolution.

“We sincerely appreciate your patience, resilience, and continued trust… Be assured that we remain steadfast and committed to the welfare and well-being of all NARD members,” he said.