The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a fresh 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its outstanding demands or face a nationwide strike.
In a communiqué signed by its President, Dr. Osundara Tope, Secretary-General, Dr. Odunbanku Kazeem Oluwashola, and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Amobi Omoha, at the end of its E-NEC meeting, the association expressed frustration over government’s failure to address long-standing welfare concerns despite earlier engagements.
Among its demands are the immediate payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to all eligible resident doctors, prompt settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25%/35% CONMESS review, as well as other salary arrears. NARD is also demanding the payment of the arrears of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance and the commencement of specialist allowance payments without further delay.
Dr. Tope said the ultimatum, which expires on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, would mark the association’s final warning. “Failure to meet these demands within the stipulated period will leave us with no other option than to embark on a nationwide strike,” he warned.
The association condemned some state governments for failing to pay MRTF to resident doctors in their employment, describing it as negligence and insensitivity. It called on governors to prioritise the welfare of doctors in state-owned hospitals and training institutions to curb emigration and ensure industrial harmony.
NARD further demanded that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) restore recognition of the West African postgraduate membership certificates and that the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN) commence immediate issuance of membership certificates to deserving candidates.
Additionally, the body called for the immediate implementation of the 2024 CONMESS and resolution of all outstanding welfare issues in Kaduna State, where resident doctors have already resumed an indefinite strike.
The communiqué concluded with a strong appeal to both federal and state governments to urgently address the lingering welfare concerns of doctors nationwide.
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