The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has called off its nationwide warning strike, just 48 hours after it began.
The industrial action, which commenced on Friday morning, was suspended on Saturday night, with doctors directed to return to work immediately.
In a communique released on Sunday, the association’s President, Dr. Tope Osundara, confirmed the decision, noting that some of their demands had been addressed, while others were still under government review.
“Some of our demands have been met. The government has promised to look into the rest. Strike suspended; resumption to work tomorrow (today). We did this as a sign of goodwill and to assist Nigerians who are seeking healthcare in our various facilities,” the communique read.
Services Disrupted Nationwide
The strike had crippled medical services in several public hospitals across the country. With resident doctors absent, consultants and other health workers struggled to handle overwhelming caseloads, leaving patients stranded and delaying critical treatments.
Healthcare staff described the two-day disruption as “overwhelming,” as facilities battled to manage emergencies with limited manpower.
Unresolved Demands
Resident doctors had downed tools over several pressing welfare and funding issues, including:
Immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund.
Settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35% CONMESS salary structure review.
Payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears.
Timely disbursement of specialist allowances.
Restoration of recognition for the West African Postgraduate Membership Certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
Issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.
Full implementation of the 2024 CONMESS structure.
Welfare concerns affecting doctors in Kaduna State.
Urgent intervention for resident doctors at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
Cautious Optimism
While suspending the strike, NARD emphasized that the move was a goodwill gesture and a chance for the government to act swiftly.
The association warned that failure to meet its outstanding demands could trigger a fresh wave of industrial action.
“Doctors are committed to serving Nigerians, but our welfare and training must also be prioritized,” Osundara added.
