The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, scheduled to begin on Friday, November 1, 2025.
The decision followed a five-hour National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Saturday, after the expiration of a 30-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government to resolve long-standing welfare and work-related issues.
In a statement released on Sunday, NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, said the strike had become unavoidable due to the government’s persistent failure to address critical demands.
Among the association’s key demands are a 200% increase in the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), the full implementation of pending allowances proposed since July 2022, immediate recruitment of clinical staff, and the removal of administrative obstacles delaying the replacement of departing doctors.
NARD has directed its centre presidents and general secretaries to convene emergency congress meetings to brief members and ensure full compliance with the strike directive.
Dr. Suleiman also accused certain individuals within and outside government circles of working against resident doctors’ interests, warning that any exploitative actions would be strongly resisted.
He further urged members to use the period leading up to the strike to hand over patients appropriately, engage with community and religious leaders, and enlighten the public on the reasons behind the industrial action.
According to NARD, the strike is not just about doctors’ welfare but also about safeguarding the overall integrity and sustainability of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
