The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its nationwide warning strike, two days after it commenced, directing members to return to work on Sunday.
The strike, which began on Friday, had disrupted services in public hospitals, leaving consultants and other health workers to manage heavy caseloads and causing delays for patients.
NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, announced the suspension in a message to reporters late Saturday.
He said the decision followed partial concessions from government authorities.
“Some of our demands have been met. The government has promised to look into other issues. Strike suspended; resumption to work tomorrow (today).
“We did this as a sign of goodwill and to assist Nigerians who are seeking healthcare in our various facilities,” Osundara stated.
Although he did not provide details of the specific demands addressed, the doctors had listed several grievances before embarking on the strike.
These included the immediate payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of five months’ arrears from the 25–35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review, and other salary backlogs.
They also demanded payment of the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears, prompt disbursement of specialist allowances, recognition of West African postgraduate membership certificates by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, and issuance of membership certificates by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria.
Other issues highlighted were the implementation of the 2024 CONMESS, welfare challenges in Kaduna State, and the plight of resident doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
While the strike has been suspended, NARD said it would continue to monitor the government’s response to its outstanding demands.