Doctors Extend Strike Truce, Demand Action On Salaries & Welfare
Doctors Extend Strike Suspension
THE Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a fresh four-week ultimatum to the Federal Government to fully implement outstanding agreements on salaries, allowances, and welfare, even as it extended the suspension of its Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike (TICS).
The decision followed deliberations at the Association’s January National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and Scientific Conference, held from 25 to 29 January 2026, in Jos, Plateau State.
In a communiqué jointly signed by NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman; Secretary-General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Abdulmajid Ibrahim, the Association described the extension of the strike suspension as a goodwill gesture in recognition of progress recorded in negotiations with the Federal Government.
Ultimatum Linked to Outstanding Agreements
According to the communiqué, NARD resolved to extend the suspension of the strike for another four weeks while urging the government to accelerate the implementation of all unresolved commitments.
“In recognition of the progress made by the Federal Government towards addressing the legitimate demands of Nigerian resident doctors, the NEC has resolved to extend the suspension of the Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike for a further period of four weeks,” the Association stated.
NARD, however, warned that failure to meet the agreed timelines could strain industrial relations within the health sector.
Engagements and Acknowledgements
The Association expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, and other key stakeholders for their roles in facilitating dialogue.
It also acknowledged the intervention of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) in addressing salary-related concerns.
Progress Recorded
NARD noted the reinstatement of disengaged resident doctors at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, describing the development as a positive step.
The NEC also welcomed assurances from IPPIS regarding the payment of outstanding 25 and 35 per cent CONMESS and accoutrement allowance arrears, with officials indicating that efforts were underway to clear the backlog within two weeks.
In addition, the Association said promotion and salary arrears had been forwarded to relevant authorities, with assurances from the Minister of Finance that payments would be expedited.
Areas of Concern
Despite the progress, NARD raised concerns over delays in circulating the directive affirming CONMESS 3 as the approved entry level for medical doctors.
The Association also decried the non-payment of the Professional Allowance provided for in the 2026 Appropriation Act, as well as persistent salary arrears in several health institutions across the country.
NARD further warned of deteriorating industrial relations at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital and called for urgent intervention to avert escalation.
Call for Broader Health Sector Reforms
Beyond remuneration issues, the Association renewed its call for improved welfare, timely release of training funds, and sustained investment in health infrastructure nationwide.
It urged the Federal Government to use the four-week window to demonstrate commitment to resolving lingering disputes, warning that the patience of resident doctors should not be taken for granted.
