Resident doctors under NARD have announced a nationwide strike beginning Tuesday, April 7, citing unresolved welfare issues, allowance arrears, and the need to reinstate the Professional Allowance Table.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced plans to begin a nationwide strike on Tuesday, April 7, following concerns over the Federal Government’s review of the Professional Allowance Table policy framework and unresolved welfare issues.
The Secretary-General of the association, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, disclosed this in a statement issued on Saturday, explaining that the decision followed extensive consultations among members across the country.
According to him, the resolution was reached during an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held virtually, where members reviewed ongoing discussions with the Federal Government and deliberated on the welfare of resident doctors.
The association said the planned strike would commence at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday and involve members working in federal, state, and private medical institutions nationwide.
NARD emphasised the need for the reinstatement of the Professional Allowance Table, describing it as crucial for improving the welfare of doctors, boosting morale, and retaining skilled medical professionals within Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The association also called for the prompt payment of promotion and salary arrears owed to resident doctors, expressing optimism that ongoing dialogue with the government would lead to a resolution beneficial to both medical practitioners and patients.
In addition, NARD urged the timely release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, noting that improved funding would enhance training opportunities and strengthen professional development across the healthcare sector.
The association further stressed the importance of clearing outstanding allowance arrears, saying doing so would ease financial pressure on doctors and reinforce commitment among medical personnel serving communities nationwide.
Members were urged to remain united and focused as the leadership continues engagements with relevant authorities aimed at securing fair working conditions and strengthening the healthcare system.
NARD reiterated its commitment to sustained dialogue with the Federal Government, expressing hope that ongoing discussions would produce positive outcomes while safeguarding the professional interests and welfare of its members.
The Professional Allowance Table is a policy framework designed to standardise doctors’ remuneration, ensuring consistency in payments and improving administrative efficiency within Nigeria’s national healthcare system.
Observers say continued engagement between NARD and the Federal Government could help address welfare concerns and prevent prolonged disruption to healthcare services.
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