Resident Doctors Hand FG 10-Day Deadline, Threaten Indefinite Strike

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a fresh 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, warning that its members will embark on a nationwide strike if long-standing welfare demands are not addressed.

The warning, contained in a communiqué released on Monday, followed an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on Sunday. The document was signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi.

NARD recalled that it had previously given a three-week ultimatum in July, later extending it by another three weeks “to preserve industrial harmony” and allow more time for discussions with government officials. However, the association said no significant progress had been made.

According to the communiqué, many resident doctors are yet to receive their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, while five months of arrears arising from the 25/35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review remain unpaid. Other entitlements, including outstanding salary arrears and the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance, are also pending.

The doctors also criticised the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria for downgrading membership certificates of the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons and condemned the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria for its persistent delays in issuing certificates.

NARD further expressed concern over the neglect of its members by some state governments. It accused the Kaduna State Government of failing to honour agreements with doctors at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, and the Oyo State Government of ignoring welfare concerns at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, despite an ongoing strike there.

The association, however, commended state governors who have already paid the 2025 Residency Training Fund, describing the gesture as proof of their commitment to doctors’ welfare.

NARD demanded immediate payment of all outstanding allowances and entitlements, restoration of the recognition of postgraduate membership certificates, and urgent resolution of the Kaduna and Oyo disputes.

“The E-NEC hereby issues a final 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and relevant agencies. If these demands are not met by Wednesday, September 10, 2025, we will have no choice but to commence an indefinite nationwide strike” the communiqué warned.