The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has commenced an indefinite nationwide strike following the expiration of its 30-day ultimatum to the Federal Government.
The association’s president, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, announced the development in a statement released on Saturday via NARD’s official account, describing the decision as a painful but necessary step after several unfulfilled promises from the government.
According to him, the strike was triggered by the government’s repeated failure to implement agreements reached after numerous rounds of dialogue, appeals, and warnings.
“We wish to address you at this critical time as we embark on a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike—a decision that did not come lightly, nor was it ever our desire,” Suleiman stated. “We are fully aware of the pains and inconveniences that accompany any disruption in healthcare services, and we deeply regret the situation.”
He emphasized that the doctors’ demands were not self-serving but aimed at rescuing Nigeria’s deteriorating health system and ensuring quality care for all citizens.
“Our demands are not selfish, neither are they politically motivated. They are genuine, germane, and patriotic—centred on the survival of the Nigerian health system and the well-being of every citizen who depends on it,” Suleiman explained.
He listed key demands to include fair remuneration, payment of salary arrears, improved working conditions, adequate staffing, and the provision of essential medical infrastructure. He also decried excessive workloads and poor mental health support for resident doctors, stressing that an exhausted and underpaid doctor cannot provide optimal care to patients.
“A nation’s health system can only be as strong as the hands that sustain it. If the doctors are broken, under-motivated, or forced to seek survival abroad, the patients suffer most,” he said. “This is why we have taken this painful stand to secure the future of Nigerian healthcare for every man, woman, and child who deserves quality care here at home.”
Dr. Suleiman called on Nigerians—including civil society organizations, labour unions, and religious and traditional leaders—to stand in solidarity with the doctors and urge the government to meet their demands.
“This is not a fight between resident doctors and the government; it is a struggle for a functional, just, and humane healthcare system—one where your doctor can attend to you with a clear mind, a motivated spirit, and access to the tools needed to save lives,” he added.
He appealed for public understanding, assuring that the strike’s goal is to ensure long-term improvement in healthcare delivery.
Meanwhile, resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory announced on Thursday that they would join the nationwide strike to press for the resolution of issues peculiar to the FCT Administration.
NARD had earlier issued a statement last week confirming that the indefinite strike would begin on Saturday, November 1, 2025.
Hospitals across the country are expected to experience severe disruptions in services until the Federal Government meets the doctors’ demands.