The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has embarked on a five-day nationwide warning strike, shutting down services in several government hospitals to press home long-standing demands over unpaid allowances, salary arrears, and other unresolved welfare issues.
The strike, which commenced at 8:00 a.m. on Friday (today), follows the expiration of a fresh ultimatum issued to the Federal Government after what the association described as consistent neglect and inaction.
Resident doctors, who form the bulk of Nigeria’s medical workforce, have repeatedly raised concerns about:
- Unpaid hazard and call duty allowances
- Outstanding salary arrears in some states and federal institutions
- Poor working conditions, including inadequate medical equipment and infrastructure
- Lack of clear welfare packages for doctors across the country
NARD leadership said the latest industrial action was the inevitable outcome of the government’s failure to act on previous agreements.
READ ALSO: Nigerian Doctors to Begin 5-Day Nationwide Warning Strike Friday
In a formal message titled “Declaration of Strike Action” released on Friday, NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, confirmed the commencement of the strike.
“Good morning, NEC Members, thank you all for your continued cooperation and understanding. As clearly stated in our earlier communique, the strike is scheduled to commence at 8:00 am today (Friday). All centre leadership is expected to guide their members accordingly. Further updates will be communicated to NEC members in due course,” he stated.
Impact on Patients
The strike is expected to disrupt healthcare delivery across federal and state teaching hospitals, where resident doctors constitute the majority of the workforce. Many patients may face delays in receiving medical attention, particularly in emergency wards, surgery units, and outpatient clinics.
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Healthcare observers warn that the strike could further worsen Nigeria’s fragile health sector if not quickly resolved. They urged the Federal Government to engage NARD in meaningful negotiations to prevent a prolonged industrial action.
The association, however, emphasized that the strike is a warning measure and signaled readiness to return to work if the government meets its core demands.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
