The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has given the Federal Government a new 24‑hour ultimatum beginning September 12, after its previous 10‑day deadline expired with no substantial government response.
The ultimatum was decided during NARD’s Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting on September 10‑11, where members agreed unanimously to consider a nationwide warning strike if their demands are not met.
Among the group’s main grievances are:
- Non‑payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF)
- Outstanding arrears of five months’ salary due to the 25/35 percent CONMESS review
- Unpaid entitlements including the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance
- The withholding of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN)
- The downgrading by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) of certificates awarded by the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons
At the state level, NARD also called out governments in Kaduna and Oyo States. It condemned Kaduna State for failing to implement agreements with doctors at Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, and faulted Oyo State for neglecting welfare issues at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where doctors are already on indefinite strike.
In addition to the demands above, NARD urged:
- Payment of all outstanding salary arrears
- Commencement of specialist allowance payments to all doctors
- Full implementation of the 2024 CONMESS in Kaduna State
- Issuance of membership certificates by NPMCN without further delay
NARD warned that if its demands are not met within the 24‑hour timeframe, the medical workforce may proceed with nationwide industrial action. The association emphasized that ensuring doctors’ welfare is crucial to preventing brain drain and maintaining stability in the health sector.