The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced plans to begin a nationwide strike on August 10. The medical professionals warn that they will halt services across federal health institutions if the government fails to address their long-standing welfare and payment demands.
The decision was finalized after an ordinary general meeting held recently in Gombe. After reviewing past agreements, the association’s leaders expressed deep frustration over the government’s slow response and lack of follow-through.
In a joint statement, the association’s leadership made their timeline incredibly clear. “The national executive council resolved to embark on a total and comprehensive industrial strike commencing at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, 10th August 2026, should the federal government fail to satisfactorily address the outstanding issues”, the statement read.
The medical professionals have outlined several urgent needs that must be met to avoid the work stoppage. First, they are asking for the immediate payment of delayed salary upgrades and 19 months of unpaid professional allowances. They are also demanding that the government finalize a collective bargaining agreement designed to support the welfare of all healthcare workers, including newly trained house officers.
Beyond financial compensation, the doctors are pushing for better working conditions to help them care for patients safely and effectively. They have asked the government to improve hospital infrastructure nationwide, hire more medical staff to reduce severe burnout, and enforce strict measures to protect healthcare workers from physical assault while on duty.
Despite the looming deadline, the leadership emphasized that their door is open for peaceful talks. “The NEC reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and dialogue but reiterated that the welfare of resident doctors and the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system remain non-negotiable,” the union noted.
The association also highlighted specific local problems that require immediate attention. They gave the federal government until the August 10 deadline to step in and resolve an ongoing crisis at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
According to the doctors, the hospital’s management has continually intimidated medical staff. Furthermore, the hospital has allegedly refused to provide basic meals for doctors working long, demanding on-call shifts, despite repeated requests for better treatment.
If an agreement is not reached soon, this strike will heavily impact hospitals and patient care across the country, as resident doctors make up a significant portion of Nigeria’s essential healthcare workforce.
