The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commenced a nationwide strike, directing members to withdraw services from all public hospitals starting 8 a.m. Friday.
In a notice titled “Declaration of Strike Action” and signed by its Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, NARD said the move followed the expiration of its latest ultimatum after several extensions granted to the government.
The association cited unpaid 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, five months’ arrears under the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, as well as outstanding specialist and hazard allowances among its grievances.
NARD explained that the decision was reached after a six-hour virtual National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, during which members lamented the government’s failure to meet demands despite a 21-day ultimatum issued in July, followed by a 10-day extension and a final 24-hour grace period that lapsed on Thursday.
Resident doctors, who form the backbone of Nigeria’s public health system, play a critical role in federal and state hospitals. Their strike is expected to cripple healthcare delivery nationwide, leaving thousands of patients stranded.
