Nigerian Resident Doctors Commence Nationwide Strike Over Unpaid Allowances, Salary Arrears
The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commenced a nationwide strike, effectively shutting down public hospitals across the country.
The industrial action, which began at 8:00 am on Friday, September 12, 2025, follows the expiration of a 24-hour ultimatum issued to the Federal Government over unpaid allowances, salary arrears, and unresolved welfare issues.
According to Dr. Tope Osundare, President of NARD, the strike is a result of the government’s failure to meet the association’s demands within the given timeframe.
The doctors are seeking immediate payment of outstanding funds, settlement of salary arrears, and resolution of long-standing welfare issues.
The demands include payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, and payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears.
Additionally, the doctors are seeking prompt disbursement of specialist allowances and restoration of recognition of West African postgraduate membership certificates.
NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, has confirmed the commencement of the strike, instructing all center leadership to guide their members accordingly.
The strike is expected to significantly impact healthcare delivery in public hospitals, potentially leaving patients stranded and hospitals overwhelmed.
The Federal Government has been urged to expedite action on the doctors’ demands to avert further disruptions to healthcare services.
As the situation unfolds, patients and hospital administrators are bracing for the impact of the strike on the healthcare system.
