Resident Doctors Embark on Indefinite Nationwide Strike Over Unpaid Allowances

Healthcare services across Nigeria may face significant disruption following the commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).

The industrial action began after the association accused the Federal Government of failing to address key welfare and remuneration issues affecting resident doctors, despite a 21-day ultimatum issued earlier.

NARD said the strike became unavoidable following the government’s failure to reverse the removal of the Professional Allowance Table from doctors’ remuneration and its inability to meet other outstanding commitments to members.

Among the demands of the association are the immediate payment of outstanding salary arrears, promotion arrears, settlement of 19 months of Professional Allowance arrears, and the conclusion of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund.

The resident doctors also expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as prolonged delays in implementing agreements reached with government authorities on issues affecting their welfare and professional development.

According to the association, the expiration of its ultimatum without tangible action from the government left it with no option but to withdraw its services indefinitely.

The strike is expected to affect healthcare delivery in federal and state-owned teaching hospitals as well as other public health institutions where resident doctors play critical roles in patient care.

Reacting to the development, the Federal Government expressed concern over the industrial action and appealed for continued dialogue to prevent further disruption of healthcare services.

Government officials said efforts are ongoing to address the outstanding allowances and other concerns raised by the doctors, while urging the association to reconsider its decision and return to the negotiating table.

The latest strike adds to longstanding tensions between medical professionals and the government over welfare, remuneration, and working conditions within Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

Patients seeking medical attention at affected public hospitals may experience delays and reduced services as the standoff continues. Both parties are expected to engage in further discussions in a bid to reach a resolution and avert a prolonged disruption of healthcare services nationwide.