The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) will today (Wednesday) hold a crucial National Executive Council (NEC) meeting to determine its next steps over an outstanding ultimatum issued to the Federal Government.
NARD had earlier given a 10-day notice, warning that its members could embark on a nationwide strike if long-standing demands were not met. The threat has heightened concerns over the stability of Nigeria’s public health system, already strained by a shortage of doctors, poor infrastructure, and overcrowded hospitals.
Resident doctors, who make up the bulk of the medical workforce in teaching and specialist hospitals, have staged multiple strikes in recent years over unpaid wages, poor welfare, and inadequate working conditions. Experts warn that another walkout could paralyze healthcare delivery, forcing patients to rely on costly private facilities and worsening health outcomes nationwide.
In a communiqué issued on September 1, 2025, and signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi, the association listed key demands. These include immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review, as well as outstanding salary backlogs.
Other demands cover payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, prompt release of specialist allowances, restoration of recognition for West African postgraduate membership certificates, issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, and the resolution of welfare issues affecting resident doctors in Kaduna State and at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
Speaking with The PUNCH on Tuesday, Dr. Osundara said the NEC meeting would determine the union’s course of action.
“We are holding our NEC meeting tomorrow (today), and the outcome will determine our next line of action. If the government has made meaningful progress, 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, echoed the position, warning that failure to meet the doctors’ demands could disrupt industrial harmony.
“The outcome of the meeting will depend on the government’s response. If our demands remain unaddressed, a strike remains likely. Remember, we gave a three-week ultimatum in July, extended it, and mandated further dialogue—yet nothing has been done. Tomorrow, the NEC will review and decide on the next line of action,” he said.