NARD suspends nationwide strike, doctors to resume Wednesday

The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) announced the suspension of its planned nationwide strike on Tuesday, following an emergency meeting of its National Executive Council. The decision comes after the federal government showed "renewed willingness" to address key demands, including the prompt payment of outstanding salary arrears, hazard allowances, and steps toward resolving issues with the Medical Residency Training Fund. While not a full resolution, NARD said progress in negotiations informed the suspension, directing members nationwide to resume duties by 8 am on Wednesday.

This suspension averts immediate disruptions in public healthcare services across the country. Resident doctors, who form a critical part of hospital staffing, had threatened strike action over longstanding welfare issues like irregular salaries and poor hospital infrastructure. These recurring disputes have fueled a brain drain, with many Nigerian doctors seeking opportunities abroad due to unsustainable working conditions.

The government's commitments now require swift implementation to rebuild trust. Past agreements have often been delayed or partially fulfilled, leading to repeated industrial actions. For patients, the resumption means a return to normal outpatient and inpatient services, though underlying systemic challenges in the health sector remain.

Will the federal government follow through on these commitments within the next 30 days, or will another strike looms later this year? For doctors, does this offer genuine hope for improved conditions, or is it a temporary pause before renewed agitation?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/07/resident-doctors-suspend-strike-to-resume-work-wednesday/