The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a final 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and relevant agencies to address their long-standing demands—or face the prospect of a nationwide strike. The ultimatum, announced on September 1, 2025, was issued following an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E‑NEC) meeting held virtually over the weekend.
NARD is calling for:
- Immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to all eligible resident doctors.
- Settlement of five months’ arrears under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), as well as other unpaid salary backlogs.
- Disbursement of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance and introduction of specialist allowances for all qualified doctors.
- Recognition of the West African postgraduate membership certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).
- Timely issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN).
- Implementation of the 2024 CONMESS in Kaduna State, and resolution of welfare concerns in Oyo State, particularly at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, which is currently facing an indefinite strike.
NARD emphasized that despite earlier extensions—including a three-week ultimatum issued in July—progress has been inadequate. The association warned, “Failure to act by Wednesday, 10 September 2025, will leave us with no option but to embark on a nationwide strike.”
Resident doctors play a critical role in the daily functioning of Nigeria’s healthcare system, especially in emergency services and specialist care. A strike could severely disrupt patient care and amplify the existing challenges within the medical sector.
With contested negotiations and mounting public concern, this ultimatum sets the stage for a pivotal confrontation—one that could significantly affect health service delivery nationwide.
