The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially suspended its five-day nationwide warning strike, following a virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on Friday, September 13, 2025.
In a statement made available to Channels Television on Saturday, NARD confirmed that the Federal Government of Nigeria has made key commitments toward addressing the core issues outlined in the doctors’ strike communiqué. These include the commencement of payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to doctors who had previously been left out.
The statement, jointly signed by NARD’s President Dr. Osundara Tope, Secretary-General Dr. Odunbaku Oluwasola, and Publicity and Social Secretary Dr. Amobi Omoha, emphasized that the decision to suspend the industrial action was made in light of the ongoing economic hardship affecting Nigerians.
“After due deliberations, considering the plight of Nigerians who are grappling with health issues under the present harsh economy, the NEC resolved to suspend the strike action effective 8 a.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025,” the association stated.
“This decision gives the government a two-week window to fully implement the demands contained in our communiqué.”
While suspending the national strike, NARD also issued a strong warning to the Oyo State Government, urging it to swiftly resolve lingering issues affecting resident doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso.
The association expressed full support for the 15-day ultimatum issued by the Oyo State branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and warned of further action if the demands are not met.
“Failure to do so will compel the National Officers Committee (NOC) of NARD to direct all members within Oyo State to embark on an indefinite solidarity strike,” the statement warned.
NARD further clarified that resident doctors in state-run tertiary hospitals are empowered to continue with existing industrial actions until their respective state governments show genuine commitment to resolving welfare and remuneration issues.
“NARD remains committed to working with all levels of government to ensure a healthy Nigeria for all,” the statement concluded.
