The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued the Federal Government a 10-day ultimatum to address welfare concerns or face a nationwide strike.
NARD leaders, including President Dr. Tope Osundara, signed a communiqué after an Extraordinary NEC meeting held virtually on Sunday. They warned that if demands are unmet by September 10, 2025, members will withdraw services.
The doctors noted that despite extending a previous ultimatum by three weeks for “industrial harmony,” the government has failed to act. “Many resident doctors remain unpaid for their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund. The government has also withheld five months of arrears from the 25%/35% CONMESS review,” the statement said.
NARD also criticized the downgrading of membership certificates from the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons and the persistent delay in certificates from the National Postgraduate Medical College.
The association condemned several state governments for failing to support doctors. It singled out Kaduna State for breaching agreements with ARD Kaduna and Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, and Oyo State for ignoring challenges at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho.
However, NARD commended governors who paid the 2025 MRTF, calling it proof of commitment to doctors’ welfare.
The group demanded full payment of outstanding benefits, restoration of postgraduate certificates, and resolution of welfare issues in affected states.
“The NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days. Failure to comply will leave us with no choice but a nationwide strike,” the communiqué concluded.
