The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has condemned Nigeria’s alarming doctor-to-patient ratio of 1:9,083, calling it far below global standards. 

In a statement released on the country’s 65th Independence Day, the association announced that, effective October 1, 2025, resident doctors nationwide will no longer take continuous calls beyond 24 hours.

The statement was signed by NARD President Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, Secretary-General Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, and Publicity and Social Secretary Dr. Abdulmajid Ibrahim.

“With an estimated population of over 240 million people and only about 11,000 resident doctors, Nigeria records a ratio of 1:9,083. This is far from global best practice,” the association said.

It added that Nigerian resident doctors work an average of 106.5 hours weekly, with surgical residents often exceeding 122.7 hours, effectively taking four to five 24-hour calls per week.

“This workload has dire consequences for patient care and the wellbeing of doctors themselves. It leads to increased medical errors due to burnout, endangers patient safety, and takes a severe toll on doctors’ mental, physical, and psychological health,” NARD said.

The association highlighted the human cost of the excessive workload, noting, “Too often, resident doctors sacrifice their health, and sometimes their lives, in service to patients. Early-career doctors have tragically paid the ultimate price. But who cares for their families after their passing? How many more lives must we lose before decisive action is taken?”

Under the new directive, resident doctors must observe a mandatory call-free period after each 24-hour shift, a measure NARD described as vital for self-preservation and in line with the Hippocratic Oath.