The Nigerian Association Of Resident Doctors (NARD) Has Suspended
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its nationwide industrial action after receiving assurances from the Federal Government over the resolution of outstanding welfare and allowance disputes.
The association directed its members across the country to immediately resume work while issuing a conditional ultimatum ending April 21, 2026, warning that failure to fulfil agreed commitments could trigger fresh industrial action.
The strike, which commenced over disagreements surrounding the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table (PAT) and other welfare concerns, had disrupted medical services in several public hospitals nationwide. NARD leadership said the decision to suspend the strike followed renewed engagements with government representatives and promises to address key grievances affecting resident doctors
- Immediate payment of outstanding professional allowance arrears
- Settlement of promotion and salary arrears in affected institutions
- Completion of payments under the Medical Residency Training Fund
- Reversal of policies affecting previously agreed remuneration structures
The association noted that the government’s intervention created an opportunity for dialogue and progress toward lasting solutions.
Despite suspending the action, NARD stressed that the strike was only placed on hold, not permanently called off.
The association warned that it would reassess the situation on April 21, adding that failure by authorities to meet agreed timelines could lead to renewed nationwide industrial action.
Medical practitioners were therefore instructed to return to their duty posts while monitoring government compliance.
Resident doctors had earlier embarked on an indefinite strike after accusing the government of attempting to discontinue implementation of the revised professional allowance agreement reached after previous negotiations. The dispute centred on remuneration, delayed payments, and welfare conditions affecting doctors in federal and state-owned hospitals.
NARD, which represents a significant proportion of Nigeria’s public-sector doctors, has historically engaged the government through industrial actions to press for improved working conditions and healthcare funding. The suspension of the strike is expected to restore clinical services in teaching hospitals and specialist medical centres where patients experienced delays in consultations, surgeries, and emergency care during the industrial action. Health stakeholders have welcomed the development but urged both parties to reach a lasting agreement to prevent recurring disruptions in Nigeria’s healthcare system Observers say the coming weeks will be critical as the Federal Government works to fulfil commitments made to the doctors before the April 21 deadline. NARD leadership reiterated its willingness to continue negotiations but maintained that members’ welfare and the stability of Nigeria’s health sector remain non-negotiable.
