By Peter Omopo
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) will today (Wednesday) convene its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to determine whether to embark on a nationwide strike following the expiration of a 10-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government.
The association, which accounts for the bulk of the medical workforce in Nigeria’s teaching and specialist hospitals, has repeatedly raised concerns about unpaid salaries, poor welfare, and inadequate working conditions. Experts warn that another strike could cripple healthcare delivery, forcing patients to seek costly private care and worsening health outcomes across the country.
In a communiqué dated September 1, 2025, signed by NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara, General Secretary Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, and Publicity and Social Secretary Dr. Omoha Amobi, the doctors demanded:
- Immediate payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund.
- Settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent CONMESS (Consolidated Medical Salary Structure) review.
- Payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears.
- Prompt disbursement of specialist allowances.
- Restoration of recognition for West African postgraduate membership certificates.
- Issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria to eligible candidates.
- Full implementation of the 2024 CONMESS.
- Resolution of welfare issues in Kaduna State and at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
Speaking on Tuesday, NARD President Osundara confirmed that the outcome of today’s NEC meeting would guide the union’s next steps.
“We will review whether the government has made any meaningful progress on addressing our demands. If there is a positive response, it will guide our decision. If not, the council will take a firm stance, including the possibility of industrial action,” he said.
NARD First Vice-President, Dr. Tajudeen Abdulrauf, also confirmed the uncertainty surrounding the outcome.
“The government has had ample time to respond. We gave a three-week ultimatum in July, extended it in good faith, and mandated further engagements. Yet, nothing has been done. If our demands are not addressed, we cannot guarantee industrial harmony,” Abdulrauf stated.
The looming strike threat adds to pressure on Nigeria’s fragile public health system, which is already struggling with a shortage of doctors, decaying infrastructure, and overcrowded facilities.
