Nigerian doctors begin strike, shut down hospitals nationwide

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has embarked on a strike and directed its members to shut down public hospitals nationwide from Friday.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) said the action followed the expiration of its latest ultimatum after months of extensions granted to the government.

In a notice titled “Declaration of strike action” and signed by NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, the doctors confirmed the strike began at 8 a.m. Friday.

“All Centre leadership is expected to guide their members accordingly. Further updates will be communicated to NEC members in due course,” the message read.

Among their grievances are the non-payment of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, five months’ arrears from the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, as well as outstanding specialist and hazard allowances.

The association said it took the decision after a six-hour virtual National Executive Council meeting, noting that the government failed to act despite a 21-day ultimatum issued in July, an additional 10-day extension, and a final 24-hour grace period that lapsed on Thursday.

Resident doctors form the backbone of Nigeria’s public health system, and their withdrawal of services is expected to paralyse care in many federal and state hospitals, leaving patients stranded.