Resident Doctors Hand FG 10-Day Ultimatum Over Welfare Demands

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to meet its welfare-related demands or risk a nationwide strike.

This was contained in a communiqué signed by NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara; General Secretary, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Omoha Amobi, after an Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held virtually on Sunday.

The association recalled that it had earlier given a three-week ultimatum in July, which was later extended by another three weeks in the interest of industrial harmony. However, it noted that the government had failed to fulfil its promises.

“The E-NEC condemned the failure of the Federal Government to honour its commitments, noting with dismay that many resident doctors have yet to receive their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund,” the communiqué stated.
It added that outstanding arrears from the 25 per cent/35 per cent Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review, along with other salary backlogs, remain unpaid.

NARD also expressed dissatisfaction with the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) for downgrading membership certificates from the West African Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons, while faulting the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria over delays in issuing certificates.

Other grievances include non-payment of the 2024 Accoutrement Allowance arrears and alleged neglect of doctors in certain states.

“The E-NEC strongly condemned the Kaduna State Government for failing to honour agreements with members under ARD Kaduna and Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital despite signed Memoranda of Understanding.
It also criticised the Oyo State Government for neglecting challenges faced by members of ARD LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, where doctors are already on indefinite strike,” the communiqué added.

Despite its concerns, the association commended state governors who have paid the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, describing their actions as encouraging.

Among its demands, NARD is calling for the immediate payment of outstanding allowances, full recognition of postgraduate membership certificates, and resolution of welfare issues affecting members in Kaduna and Oyo States.

The association warned that the 10-day ultimatum, which ends on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, would be its final extension.

“The E-NEC extends the ultimatum by a final 10 days to all relevant government agencies to meet these demands. Failure to comply will leave the NEC with no option but to embark on a nationwide strike,” it warned.