The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a final warning to the Federal Government, announcing plans to embark on a nationwide strike starting August 10, 2026, if critical welfare and professional concerns are not urgently addressed.
The decision was reached during the association’s July National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Gombe, where members reviewed ongoing engagements with the government and the level of implementation of previous agreements.
In a communiqué signed by NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, alongside other executive members, the association acknowledged some progress—particularly the disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF).
However, it stressed that several pressing issues remain unresolved.
Among the key demands are the immediate payment of arrears from the 25% and 35% upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), settlement of 19 months’ unpaid professional allowances, and outstanding promotion arrears owed to resident doctors in federal health institutions.
NARD also raised concerns over the welfare of house officers, citing delayed salaries, unpaid entitlements, internship placement challenges, and prolonged onboarding processes, which it said continue to weaken morale within the healthcare system.
The association strongly condemned the increasing cases of harassment, intimidation, and physical attacks on doctors while on duty, describing them as unacceptable. It called on the National Assembly to enact laws that would criminalize assaults on healthcare workers nationwide.
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In addition, NARD urged the Federal Government to accelerate the conclusion and implementation of the Medical and Health Workers’ Collective Bargaining Agreement and act on recommendations from the ministerial committee investigating excessive workloads, prolonged call hours, and unfair employment practices.
Beyond welfare issues, the doctors called for improved investment in Nigeria’s healthcare sector, including the provision of modern medical equipment, better hospital maintenance, stable electricity supply, and the recruitment of more healthcare personnel to address workforce shortages.
While reaffirming its commitment to dialogue, the association emphasized that the welfare of its members and the sustainability of Nigeria’s healthcare system are non-negotiable.
The ultimatum follows an earlier extension granted in June, after an initial 21-day notice to the government failed to yield satisfactory results.
If the government does not meet these demands before the deadline, NARD says a total and comprehensive industrial action will commence nationwide.
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