NARD ultimatum strike looms as doctors meet to decide action over unpaid allowances, arrears, and welfare concerns affecting healthcare delivery

NARD ultimatum strike has taken center stage as the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors holds its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting today (Wednesday) to decide its next move over unmet demands from the Federal Government.

Also read: Resident doctors strike threat sparks fresh crisis in Nigeria

The association had earlier issued a 10-day ultimatum warning of a nationwide strike if outstanding issues were not addressed.

Resident doctors make up the bulk of Nigeria’s teaching and specialist hospital workforce, and another shutdown could plunge the fragile health system into deeper crisis.

In a communiqué dated September 1, 2025, signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi, the doctors demanded the immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent CONMESS review, and long-standing salary backlogs.

They also pressed for the payment of the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, disbursement of specialist allowances, recognition of West African postgraduate membership certificates, and implementation of the 2024 CONMESS.

In addition, they highlighted welfare concerns in Kaduna State and unresolved issues affecting resident doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.

Speaking on Tuesday, Dr. Osundara said today’s meeting would be decisive.

“We will review whether the government has made any meaningful progress on addressing our demands. If there is a positive response, it will guide our decision. If not, the council will take a firm stance, including the possibility of industrial action,” he explained.

NARD First Vice-President, Dr. Tajudeen Abdulrauf, echoed the warning, noting that patience within the association was running thin.

“The outcome will depend on the government’s response. If they are not addressed, we cannot guarantee industrial harmony, and a strike remains likely,” he said.

Also read: Nigerian doctors give Tinubu govt 21 days to meet demands or face indefinite strike

Observers warn that if the NARD ultimatum strike materializes, patients will face disruptions in public hospitals, forcing many to seek costly private care and further straining the country’s healthcare system.