The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government on September 11, 2025, to address its demands.
This followed the expiration of a 10-day deadline on September 10. The decision came after a six-hour virtual National Executive Council meeting on Wednesday.
NARD President Dr. Tope Osundara acknowledged the government’s promises but demanded immediate action. “We’ve given the government until Friday to act, or we’ll strike,” he said.
Key Demands Listed
A September 1 communiqué, signed by Dr. Osundara, General Secretary Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, and Publicity Secretary Dr. Omoha Amobi, outlined demands:
- Immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) for over 2,000 doctors.
- Settlement of five months’ salary arrears from the 25–35% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review.
- Payment of 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears.
- Restoration of West African postgraduate membership certificate recognition by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria.
- Issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College.
- Implementation of the 2024 Consolidated Medical Salary Structure.
- Resolution of welfare issues in Kaduna State and at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
Critical Role of Resident Doctors
Resident doctors are vital to Nigeria’s public health system, delivering most clinical services in federal and state hospitals. A strike would disrupt healthcare, leaving patients stranded and hospitals overwhelmed.
Government’s Response
On Wednesday, the government promised to address NARD’s concerns. Osundara stressed urgency: “We need the MRTF disbursed, certificates upgraded, and other demands met by Thursday, or we strike Friday.”
Why It Matters
The ultimatum highlights ongoing tensions between resident doctors and the government. Unresolved issues could paralyze Nigeria’s healthcare system, affecting millions. NARD’s push for fair compensation and recognition underscores the need for systemic reforms.
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