Resident doctors to begin an indefinite nationwide strike from October 31, 2025, after the government failed to meet their 30-day ultimatum

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike, set to begin at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, October 31, 2025.

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The decision followed a five-hour extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held last Sunday, during which members expressed frustration over the Federal Government’s failure to meet the union’s demands, despite a 30-day ultimatum issued in September.

In a statement released on Saturday and signed by NARD President, Dr Mohammad Suleiman, the association said it had exhausted all dialogue channels and could no longer ignore the worsening conditions faced by its members nationwide.

“The NEC has unanimously directed us to declare a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike action to commence on Friday, 31st October 2025, at 11:59 p.m.,” Suleiman said.

He noted that the National Officers Committee (NOC) had carried out its mandate “with grace and confidence” but was left with no choice but to proceed with the industrial action after the government’s continued inaction.

According to the statement, the council has outlined the minimum demands and strike compliance directives to ensure full participation across all centres.

Suleiman also instructed all centre presidents and general secretaries to hold emergency congresses to brief members on the NEC’s resolutions, adding that the leadership remained united in its pursuit of improved working conditions.

The NARD president accused unnamed individuals within and outside government of harbouring “exploitative plans” against resident doctors, stressing that the union would resist any attempts to undermine its members.

He urged doctors to use the days before the strike to hand over patients, engage community and religious leaders, and educate the public on the reasons for the action.

“Trust the process, believe in your leaders, and remain resolute. Victory is certain,” Suleiman said.

He added that a communiqué and press briefing detailing the association’s demands would soon be made public.

Also read: Doctors’ Strike Ultimatum Looms Despite Hopeful Talks With FG, Says NMA

NARD has long advocated for improved welfare, hazard allowances, and payment of arrears, alongside adequate hospital infrastructure and staffing, issues that have led to several industrial disputes in recent years.