The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a 10-day ultimatum to meet its long-standing welfare demands or face a nationwide strike.
The warning was contained in a communiqué signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi, following an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on Sunday.
NARD recalled that it had earlier issued a three-week ultimatum in July, later extending it by another three weeks “in the interest of industrial harmony” to allow engagement with key stakeholders. However, the association said the government had failed to honour its promises.
“The E-NEC condemned the failure of the Federal Government to fulfil its promises, noting with dismay that a substantial number of resident doctors remain unpaid for their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund,” the communiqué read.
“The government has also refused to pay the outstanding five months’ arrears arising from the 25 per cent/35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, as well as other longstanding salary arrears.”
The doctors also expressed displeasure with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for downgrading membership certificates issued by the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons, while criticising the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria for its persistent delay in issuing certificates.
Other grievances include the non-payment of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance arrears and the alleged neglect of doctors in some states.
“The E-NEC condemned in strong terms the failure of the Kaduna State Government to honour its commitments to members under ARD Kaduna and Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, despite earlier agreements and signed Memoranda of Understanding.
The E-NEC condemned the failure of the Oyo State Government to address the challenges faced by members of ARD LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, despite an ongoing indefinite strike action in the hospital,” the communiqué stated.
Despite its criticisms, the association commended governors who have paid the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, describing their actions as a sign of commitment to the welfare of medical professionals.
Among its key demands, NARD called for the immediate settlement of outstanding allowances and entitlements, full recognition of postgraduate membership certificates, and resolution of welfare issues affecting its members in Kaduna and Oyo States.
The association warned that its 10-day ultimatum, which expires on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, would be final.
“The E-NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days to all relevant government agencies to meet these demands. Failure to do so within this period will leave the NEC with no other option than to embark on a nationwide strike action,” it warned.
