The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially embarked on a nationwide strike, beginning Friday, September 12, 2025, after the federal government failed to meet their minimum demands within a 24-hour ultimatum.

NARD President, Dr. Osundara Tope Zenith, confirmed the action following the expiration of the deadline issued after an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on September 10. Representatives from federal, state, and private tertiary health institutions were present.

The doctors expressed deep disappointment that despite several engagements with government stakeholders, critical welfare issues remain unresolved.

Key grievances include:

Non-payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to many resident doctors.

Failure to pay five months’ arrears from the 25%/35% CONMESS salary review.

Unpaid 2024 accoutrement allowance and other salary backlogs.

Downgrading of membership certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN).

Delays in issuing certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN).

Welfare neglect at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where doctors remain on indefinite strike.

In its resolution, NARD demanded:

Immediate release of the 2025 MRTF.

Payment of all outstanding arrears and allowances.

Restoration of recognition for postgraduate medical certificates.

Swift intervention by state governments to improve doctors’ welfare.

Dr. Osundara stressed that the strike became inevitable, saying the government failed to act in good faith even after multiple extensions of earlier ultimatums.

The strike is expected to disrupt services at public hospitals nationwide, sparking fresh concerns over access to healthcare for millions of Nigerians who rely on government facilities.