The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its five-day warning strike, granting the Federal Government a two-week deadline to fully implement agreements on members’ welfare and training.
The strike, which began on September 12, was called off following a virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on Saturday, September 13. Doctors resolved to resume work from 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 14.
In a statement signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, and Secretary-General, Dr. Odunbaku Kazeem Oluwasola, the association said the decision to suspend the strike was influenced by the commencement of payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to members who were previously owed, as well as the need to reduce the hardship faced by Nigerians in the current economic situation.
“After due deliberations, and considering the plight of Nigerians grappling with health challenges under the present harsh economy, the NEC resolved to suspend the strike action effective 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025, to allow the government a two-week window to fully implement the demands contained in our communiqué,” the statement read.
NARD also urged the Oyo State Government to comply with the 15-day ultimatum issued by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Oyo State branch, to resolve lingering issues affecting doctors at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
“Failure to do so will compel the NOC of NARD to direct all members within Oyo State to embark on an indefinite solidarity strike. Furthermore, we urge other state governments to promptly resolve the welfare challenges facing our members 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 addressing their concerns,” the statement added.
