Resident doctors suspend planned strike, give FG August 31 deadline

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned nationwide industrial action, giving the Federal Government until August 31 to implement agreements reached with the association.

NARD had earlier threatened to commence a nationwide strike on Monday, August 10, over outstanding salary and allowance arrears as well as unresolved welfare concerns affecting doctors in federal health institutions.

The association’s decision followed a high-level meeting with government officials at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on August 4, where issues relating to salaries, promotions, allowances and other welfare concerns were discussed.

In a communique issued after its Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually, NARD said it had decided to suspend the planned Total and Comprehensive Industrial Strike (TICS) as a demonstration of goodwill and commitment to constructive engagement.

“In recognition of the intervention of the Chief of Staff to the President and other critical stakeholders, and as a demonstration of goodwill and NARD’s commitment to constructive engagement and industrial harmony, the E-NEC resolved to suspend the planned resumption of the Total and Comprehensive Industrial Strike (TICS) earlier scheduled to commence on Monday, 10th August 2026,” the communique reads.

The association, however, warned that the suspension of the strike should not be interpreted as an abandonment of its demands, stressing that government’s commitments must translate into verifiable implementation within the agreed timelines.

NARD said it would monitor compliance through its national officers’ committee and review the progress made by August 31.

Among its demands is the payment of outstanding Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) entitlements, salary and promotion arrears, as well as remaining salary arrears owed resident doctors at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.

The association also called for the immediate implementation of a national minimum security protocol for healthcare workers amid concerns over attacks, intimidation and violence against medical personnel.

NARD further directed that health institutions where call-duty meals are not currently provided should be given a three-week ultimatum to commence adequate provision for resident doctors on call.

It also demanded the implementation of recommendations contained in the ministerial committee’s report on excessive workload, prolonged call-duty hours and the casualisation of doctors.

The doctors called for the immediate conclusion of outstanding processes and their transmission to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission for circularisation, as well as appropriate provision in the 2027 budget.

NARD also condemned alleged victimisation and intimidation of its members within the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

The association said it would continue to engage the government while closely monitoring the implementation of the agreements before taking a decision on its next course of action.