The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced the suspension of its proposed industrial action, directing members across the country to return to work on Wednesday.
The decision followed an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council, where members assessed recent engagements with the Federal Government and agreed to continue negotiations rather than proceed with the strike.
NARD said the move was influenced by progress made in ongoing discussions, particularly assurances from the government regarding the settlement of outstanding salaries, hazard allowances, and other welfare-related concerns. The association also noted commitments to address lingering issues tied to the Medical Residency Training Fund.
Despite suspending the strike, NARD made it clear that the situation remains under review, stating that the dispute has not been fully resolved but that recent developments indicate a willingness by the government to engage constructively.
Confirming the directive, Dr. Uthman Adedeji of the University College Hospital said resident doctors have been instructed to resume work by 8:00 a.m. nationwide.
The disagreement between doctors and the government is largely linked to delays in implementing a revised Professional Allowance Table agreed upon after previous negotiations in 2025. The agreement included improved payments covering call duties, shift work, rural postings, and non-clinical responsibilities.
Although implementation began later than planned earlier this year, concerns emerged following indications that the process could be discontinued, raising fears among doctors about the government’s commitment to earlier agreements.
Recurring disputes between resident doctors and authorities in Nigeria have often centered on poor welfare conditions, irregular pay, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. These ongoing challenges have continued to fuel the migration of medical professionals seeking better opportunities abroad.
NARD stated that it will closely monitor the government’s actions in the coming weeks while maintaining dialogue to ensure that agreed terms are fully implemented.
