Resident Doctors Set to Decide on Nationwide Strike as NEC Meets Today

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) is set to hold its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting today, Wednesday, to determine its next course of action regarding a pending ultimatum to the Federal Government.

Earlier, the association had issued a 10-day ultimatum to relevant government agencies, warning that members could embark on a nationwide strike if their demands were not addressed. https://democracyradio.ng/resident-doctors-begin-seven-day-warning-strike-demand-urgent-reforms/ The move comes amid growing concerns over Nigeria’s public health system, which is already struggling with doctor shortages, poor infrastructure, and overcrowded hospitals.

Resident doctors, who form the bulk of the medical workforce in teaching and specialist hospitals, have in recent years repeatedly resorted to industrial action over issues including unpaid wages, poor welfare, and substandard working conditions. Experts warn that another strike could further strain healthcare delivery, pushing patients toward expensive private care and worsening nationwide health outcomes.

In a communiqué dated September 1, 2025, and signed by NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara, General Secretary Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, and Publicity and Social Secretary Dr. Omoha Amobi, the association demanded immediate payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, and other long-standing salary backlogs.

Speaking with The PUNCH on Tuesday, Dr. Osundara said the NEC meeting would determine the association’s next step. “We are holding our NEC meeting tomorrow (today), and the outcome will determine our next line of action. At the meeting, we will review whether the government has made any meaningful progress on addressing our demands. If there is a positive response, it will guide our decision, but if not, the council will take a firm stance on the next steps, including the possibility of industrial action,” he said.

NARD First Vice-President Dr. Tajudeen Abdulrauf also confirmed the meeting, noting that the association’s next move hinges on the government’s response. “The outcome of the meeting will depend on the government’s response to our demands. If they are not addressed, we cannot guarantee industrial harmony, and a strike remains likely. Remember, we gave a three-week ultimatum in July and extended it. In the spirit of dialogue, the NEC mandated the National Officers’ Committee to engage stakeholders for another three weeks, yet nothing has been done. When we meet tomorrow, we will review the government’s response and decide on the next line of action,” Abdulrauf said.

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