The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has launched a nationwide strike today, Friday, September 12, following the federal government’s failure to meet its minimum demands within the 24-hour ultimatum earlier issued.
NARD President, Dr. Osundara Tope Zenith, confirmed the industrial action, stressing that the strike became unavoidable after the government failed to act in good faith.
The association had warned on Wednesday, September 10, after an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting, that doctors would withdraw services if the demands were not met.
“Despite repeated engagements with relevant stakeholders, critical issues affecting our welfare remained unresolved.
The strike became inevitable,” Dr. Osundara said.
The doctors expressed frustration that long-standing issues have been ignored.
Among the major grievances are the non-payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to many resident doctors, outstanding five-month arrears from the 25%/35% CONMESS review, unpaid 2024 accoutrement allowance, and other salary arrears.
Moreover, the association condemned the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for downgrading membership certificates from the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons.
It also faulted the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) for delaying certificates to qualified candidates.
In addition to federal issues, NARD criticised the Oyo State Government for its poor handling of welfare matters affecting doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, who remain on indefinite strike.
The association also pointed out that several state governments have failed to disburse the MRTF to resident doctors in their employment, worsening the situation.
“The welfare of doctors has been treated with levity for too long. Hospitals cannot function when those who sustain them are neglected,” the E-NEC stated.
With the strike in effect, hospitals across Nigeria are expected to be heavily affected.
Patients depending on public hospitals may face disruptions in services, raising concerns about access to healthcare.
Furthermore, NARD’s resolutions include a demand for the immediate release of the 2025 MRTF, settlement of all outstanding arrears, restoration of recognition for postgraduate certificates, and urgent interventions by state governments to improve welfare.
This latest strike highlights Nigeria’s ongoing healthcare challenges and the strained relationship between medical professionals and the government.
The call for action remains urgent, as the doctors maintain that without improvements, the nation’s health system risks deeper collapse.
