The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its five-day warning strike just two days after it began, giving the Federal Government an extra two weeks to meet its demands.
The strike, which started on Friday, September 12, disrupted services in public hospitals nationwide, leaving consultants and other health workers struggling to manage the heavy caseload. NARD announced the suspension on Saturday night after an Extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, directing members to resume work today.
“Some of our demands have been met. The government has promised to look into other issues. Strike suspended; resumption of work tomorrow (today). We did this as a sign of goodwill and to assist Nigerians who are seeking healthcare in our various facilities,” NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara said.
The association said it considered the plight of Nigerians under the current harsh economic situation before taking the decision. It noted that the government has started paying the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund to previously excluded members.
NARD’s demands include full payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 percent CONMESS salary review, payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, specialist allowances, and the recognition of the West African postgraduate membership certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
The association also called on the Oyo State Government to resolve issues affecting doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, within 15 days or face an indefinite solidarity strike by its members in the state. Other state governments were urged to address welfare concerns affecting resident doctors to avoid further disruptions.
NARD stressed its commitment to working with all levels of government to improve healthcare delivery for Nigerians.
