In a move reflecting cautious optimism, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has called off its five-day warning strike, initiated on September 12, 2025, after receiving assurances from the Federal Government to address longstanding healthcare challenges.
The decision, announced on Sunday, September 14, 2025, comes amid Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to bolster its fragile healthcare system, strained by economic hardship and a brain drain of medical professionals.
The suspension was detailed in a statement signed by NARD’s National President, Dr. Tope Osundara; Secretary-General, Dr. Odunbaku Oluwasola; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Amobi Omoha.
“Following the Federal Government’s commitment to address the issues outlined in our strike communiqué, along with the commencement of payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to members who were previously owed,” the statement read, highlighting the government’s initial steps toward meeting the doctors’ demands.
The backdrop to this industrial action is a healthcare sector grappling with chronic underfunding, outdated infrastructure, and a shortage of medical personnel, exacerbated by the emigration of skilled doctors seeking better opportunities abroad.
NARD, representing thousands of resident doctors across Nigeria’s public hospitals, has repeatedly used strikes to push for reforms, including timely payment of MRTF arrears, increased hazard allowances, and improved working conditions.
The decision to suspend the strike followed a virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting on Saturday, where NARD weighed the government’s promises against the urgent needs of Nigerians facing healthcare access challenges.
“The Association convened a virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting on Saturday,” the statement noted, adding that the suspension was effective immediately to alleviate the burden on patients amidst economic difficulties.
NARD has given the Federal Government a two-week ultimatum to fully implement the agreed-upon demands, signaling that the pause is conditional.
The association also issued a stern warning to the Oyo State Government, urging compliance with a 15-day ultimatum from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Oyo State branch to address issues affecting doctors at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
“Failure to do so will compel the National Officers’ Committee (NOC) of NARD to direct all members in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite solidarity strike,” the statement cautioned.
Additionally, NARD called on other state governments to tackle welfare issues impacting resident doctors.
“In line with the NEC resolution, members in state tertiary hospitals are empowered to continue their industrial action until their respective governments demonstrate a genuine commitment to resolving their concerns,” the association stated, emphasizing its resolve to hold authorities accountable.
As Nigeria navigates a critical juncture in its healthcare system, NARD reaffirmed its dedication to partnering with governments to build a more robust and accessible medical framework.
The temporary suspension offers a glimmer of hope for patients, but the association’s vigilance underscores the urgency of sustained reforms to prevent further disruptions in a sector vital to the nation’s well-being.
By JOY ADARA, Abuja
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