NARD suspends nationwide strike after federal government commits to paying MRTF. Resident doctors resume work amid further talks on pending demands

NARD suspends nationwide strike following a renewed commitment by the federal government to meet key demands, including the immediate payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF).

Also read: NARD warning strike begins today, Sept 12, to last 5 days

The strike, which began on Friday and severely disrupted healthcare services across several states, was called off on Sunday evening after a weekend meeting between the leadership of the Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) and government officials.

President of the association, Dr Tope Osundara, confirmed the development in a text message to THISDAY, stating that doctors were expected to resume work immediately.

“Our strike has been suspended, doctors are to resume work today. Some of our demands have been met. One of them is the payment of the Medical Residency Training Fund. Government has also promised to look into other issues,” he said.

According to Dr Osundara, the decision to suspend the industrial action was made as a gesture of goodwill to Nigerians in need of urgent medical care.

The latest strike began after the expiration of a 10-day ultimatum and a subsequent 24-hour grace period issued by NARD, during which no agreement had been reached with the government.

However, over the weekend, the Minister of Labour and Employment and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare held talks with the doctors, giving assurances of immediate action on key concerns.

While the MRTF payment is expected to commence without further delay, several unresolved issues remain on the table.

These include:

Settlement of unpaid arrears
Reversal of the downgrade of membership certificates
Addressing manpower shortages
Release of corrected remuneration circular by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC)
Settlement of five-month arrears related to the recently approved 25–35% salary review under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS)

Despite these lingering concerns, the association has opted to return to work in good faith while awaiting full implementation of government pledges.

The federal government has not yet issued a formal public statement, but sources indicate that efforts are underway to fast-track the agreed disbursements and policy reviews.

The decision by NARD to suspend the strike will come as a relief to patients and healthcare providers, especially in federal and teaching hospitals where services had been paralysed since Friday.

Also read: NARD ultimatum strike threat puts healthcare at risk

As NARD suspends nationwide strike, observers note that sustained dialogue and timely government response remain critical in averting future disruptions to Nigeria’s overstretched healthcare system.

Source: Read more at punchng.com