Nigerian Resident Doctors Launch Indefinite Strike Over Unmet Government Agreements
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has officially begun an indefinite strike to press for the fulfillment of their demands, the association’s president, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, announced on Saturday via NARD’s official platform.
The strike follows the expiration of a 30-day ultimatum previously issued to the Federal Government, which Suleiman says repeatedly failed to honour agreements reached after several rounds of dialogue.
Suleiman acknowledged the disruption the strike would cause, stating that the decision was not made lightly. “Our demands are not for personal gain or political reasons,” he said. “They are essential for the survival of Nigeria’s health system and the welfare of every citizen who depends on it.”
He explained that resident doctors face excessive workloads, inadequate pay, delayed arrears, poor working conditions, and insufficient medical infrastructure—factors that directly affect patient care. “Doctors who are overworked and underpaid cannot provide the quality care Nigerians deserve,” he said.
Suleiman urged Nigerians, civil society organizations, labour unions, and community leaders to support the strike, emphasizing that it is a fight for a fair and functional healthcare system. “This is not a conflict between doctors and the government. It is about ensuring that doctors can work effectively, motivated, and with the tools necessary to save lives,” he said.
He warned that the long-term consequences of inaction could be severe. “If doctors are demoralized or forced to seek opportunities abroad, patients will suffer. We appeal to the government to address our demands urgently so hospitals can reopen, doctors can return to duty, and Nigerians can access the care they need.”
Earlier on Thursday, resident doctors in Abuja announced their participation in NARD’s strike due to unresolved issues with the Federal Capital Territory Administration. NARD had initially declared its intention to start the indefinite strike on Saturday, 1st November 2025.
