Resident Doctors Weigh Nationwide Strike as Government Ultimatum Lapses

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) is set to hold its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting today to determine the next course of action regarding a pending ultimatum to the Federal Government.

The association had earlier issued a 10-day ultimatum to relevant government agencies, warning of a potential nationwide strike if their demands were not met. The move comes against the backdrop of mounting pressure on Nigeria’s public health system, which continues to struggle with doctor shortages, poor infrastructure, and overcrowded hospitals.

Resident doctors, who make up the majority of medical personnel in teaching and specialist hospitals, have repeatedly staged industrial actions in recent years over unpaid wages, poor welfare, and inadequate working conditions. Experts caution that another strike could severely disrupt healthcare delivery, forcing patients to seek costly private care and worsening health outcomes nationwide.

In a communiqué issued on September 1, 2025, NARD demanded the immediate payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, and other long-standing salary backlogs. The association also called for payment of the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, prompt disbursement of specialist allowances, and recognition of the West African postgraduate membership certificates.

Additionally, NARD urged the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria to issue membership certificates to all deserving candidates, implement the 2024 CONMESS, resolve welfare issues in Kaduna State, and address concerns of resident doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.

Speaking on Tuesday, NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, said the outcome of today’s NEC meeting would determine the association’s next steps. “We will review whether the government has made meaningful progress on our demands. A positive response will guide our decision, but if not, the council will take a firm stance, including the possibility of industrial action,” he said.

NARD First Vice-President, Dr. Tajudeen Abdulrauf, echoed this position, noting that the NEC would reconvene to assess the situation. “If our demands are not addressed, we cannot guarantee industrial harmony, and a strike remains likely,” he said, adding that prior ultimatums had been extended in the spirit of dialogue with minimal progress from government authorities.