Nigerian Resident Doctors Suspend Strike After Government Commits to Welfare Talks

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned strike following positive developments in negotiations with the federal government.

The decision came on Tuesday after an emergency meeting of NARD’s National Executive Council. The association said the government had shown “renewed willingness” to address longstanding concerns over salary arrears, hazard allowances, and the Medical Residency Training Fund.

“NARD’s decision to suspend the strike reflects the progress made in discussions, particularly commitments to the prompt payment of outstanding salaries and allowances,” the group said in a statement.

Although the association stopped short of declaring a full resolution of the dispute, it emphasised that the federal government’s engagement indicated a constructive path forward. Resident doctors nationwide have been directed to resume duties by 8:00 am on Wednesday.

Disputes over welfare have been a recurring challenge for Nigeria’s resident doctors, with irregular salary payments, inadequate hazard allowances, and underfunded hospital infrastructure frequently triggering unrest. These systemic issues have contributed to a growing exodus of medical professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.

NARD said it would continue to monitor the government’s actions to ensure that commitments translate into tangible improvements for doctors and the healthcare sector at large.