The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced an indefinite nationwide strike beginning April 7, threatening to disrupt healthcare services across Nigeria.
The decision was reached after an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council.
NARD President, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, accused the Federal Government of reneging on agreements reached after the union’s 2025 strike.
The dispute centres on the government’s plan to halt implementation of the revised Professional Allowance Table, which includes improved allowances for resident doctors such as call-duty payments, rural incentives and shift allowances.
The union described the move as a violation of previous agreements and demanded immediate reversal of the decision.
Doctors are also demanding payment of promotion arrears, salary backlogs and outstanding allowances.
Health experts warn that another prolonged strike could worsen Nigeria’s already fragile healthcare system.
Public hospitals—which provide care for millions of Nigerians—depend heavily on resident doctors for daily operations.
With the country already facing a severe shortage of medical personnel and ongoing brain drain, analysts say the government’s inability to resolve recurring labour disputes continues to weaken the nation’s health sector.
