NARD issues 21-day ultimatum to FG over unpaid salaries, allowances
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a fresh 21-day ultimatum to the federal government and all employers of resident doctors, warning that failure to settle long-standing welfare and remuneration grievances could trigger industrial action across the country. The ultimatum follows the expiration of an earlier 21-day window granted at the association's May 2026 Ordinary General Meeting, after a review of unresolved issues including delayed payments of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, house officers' salaries, 19-month professional allowance arrears, outstanding CONMESS salary review arrears, and salary and promotion arrears in several health institutions.
The dispute affects resident doctors nationwide, with specific complaints raised against the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex in Ile-Ife for attempting to reintroduce banned bench fees and victimising staff, and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital for continuing to deny call meals. NARD acknowledged some progress, noting that a ministerial committee on assaults against health workers has nearly completed its work, a panel on excessive workload and casualisation is nearing completion, and employment clearance issues with the Federal Character Commission are being resolved. The association demands full payment of all arrears within 21 days, immediate implementation of the revised CONMESS structure, specialist and professional allowances, and accelerated implementation of outstanding collective-bargaining agreements.
If the government misses the deadline, resident doctors may embark on strike, potentially disrupting public health services. Are you prepared for possible disruptions to hospital services, or would you support alternative arrangements to ensure continued care during any industrial action?