The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has issued a NARD strike warning, giving the Federal Government four weeks to address welfare concerns or face nationwide industrial action

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has warned that it may begin a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands within the next four weeks.

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The decision was made during an emergency National Executive Council meeting held virtually on Saturday 27 June 2026, called to review the government’s response after the expiration of an earlier 21-day ultimatum.

In a statement signed by NARD President Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman, Secretary-General Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim and Publicity and Social Secretary Dr Abdulmajid Yahya Ibrahim, the doctors said they could no longer guarantee industrial peace if their concerns remained unresolved after the new deadline.

NARD accused the Federal Government and some health institutions of failing to fulfil promises relating to doctors’ welfare, including the payment of outstanding salaries, allowances, promotions and other benefits.

One of the major concerns raised by the doctors is the delay in releasing the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, which has not yet been paid despite repeated assurances from the government.

The association also condemned the alleged victimisation of resident doctors at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex in Ile-Ife and opposed attempts by hospital management to reintroduce bench fees for resident doctors in private tertiary health institutions.

While expressing dissatisfaction with the slow implementation of agreements, NARD acknowledged some positive developments, including efforts to address attacks on healthcare workers and welfare support provided by some state governments and private institutions.

The doctors are demanding the immediate release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, payment of all outstanding salary and allowance arrears, and stronger protection for healthcare workers across the country.

This NARD strike warning highlights the persistent challenges in Nigeria’s health sector, where welfare issues continue to threaten industrial harmony despite previous agreements.

The association said it would assess the government’s level of compliance during its next National Executive Council meeting scheduled for July 2026 in Gombe State.

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If significant progress is not made before then, the doctors may proceed with nationwide industrial action.