The NARD nationwide strike has begun as doctors demand unpaid MRTF, arrears, and welfare reforms, crippling public hospitals nationwide.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commenced a nationwide strike after the Federal Government failed to meet its minimum demands within the 24-hour ultimatum earlier issued.
The decision, announced at midnight on Friday, is already disrupting healthcare services across the country.
Dr. Osundara Tope Zenith, President of NARD, explained that the industrial action followed an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on Wednesday, September 10, 2025.
The session included representatives from federal, state, and private tertiary hospitals nationwide.
“The strike became inevitable after government failed to act in good faith,” Dr. Osundara said.
“We expected at least the minimum demands to be met within 24 hours, but nothing was done.”
During the E-NEC, members reviewed the three-week ultimatum issued in July and its subsequent 10-day extension.
They expressed frustration that repeated attempts at dialogue with relevant authorities had yielded no tangible results.
Among the unresolved grievances are:
Non-payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to many doctors.
Five months’ arrears from the 25% and 35% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review.
Non-disbursement of the 2024 accoutrement allowance.
Several outstanding salary arrears across federal and state institutions.
NARD also criticised the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for downgrading membership certificates from the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons.
Similarly, the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) was faulted for delays in issuing certificates to qualified candidates.
Beyond federal lapses, NARD spotlighted the role of state governments in deepening the crisis.
The Oyo State Government was singled out for its poor handling of doctors’ welfare at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where resident doctors have been on indefinite strike.
“We cannot ignore the plight of our colleagues in Oyo and other states where welfare challenges remain unattended,” NARD noted in its resolution.
The association accused several state governments of failing to release the MRTF despite clear directives to do so.
The NARD nationwide strike is expected to cripple services in public hospitals, particularly in emergency care and specialist departments where resident doctors play critical roles.
For millions of Nigerians who rely solely on government hospitals, the strike could mean long waiting times, delayed treatments, and in severe cases, loss of lives.
Health experts have repeatedly warned that prolonged industrial actions in the medical sector weaken confidence in Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system.
Past strikes have forced patients to turn to overcrowded private facilities, which many cannot afford.
NARD has, however, stressed that its doors remain open for dialogue. The association called on both the Federal and state governments to act swiftly to prevent further escalation.
“Our members are committed to serving Nigerians, but we cannot continue to do so under conditions that strip doctors of their dignity and professional growth,” Dr. Osundara said.
“We urge government to resolve these issues promptly so that normalcy can return to our hospitals.”
Civil society organisations and patient advocacy groups have also appealed for a quick resolution, warning that ordinary citizens bear the brunt of the crisis.
Meanwhile, government officials have yet to release a comprehensive response, though insider reports suggest behind-the-scenes consultations are ongoing.
For now, uncertainty overshadows the health sector. With negotiations stalled and doctors insisting on the fulfilment of their demands, the strike may drag on.
The NARD nationwide strike stresses the urgent need for systemic reforms in Nigeria’s healthcare system—reforms that must balance the welfare of medical professionals with the health needs of citizens.