The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has called off its indefinite nationwide strike and directed members to return to work, while issuing a fresh ultimatum to the federal government over unresolved welfare issues.

Doctors Resume Work After Fresh Assurances

The association announced that doctors are to resume duties by 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, following renewed commitments from the government to address key concerns.

NARD President, Mohammad Usman Suleiman, disclosed the decision after a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, stating that the suspension was based on expectations that agreed terms would be honoured.
 

April 21 Ultimatum Issued

Despite suspending the strike, the association warned that it is closely monitoring developments.

The government has been given until April 21 to resolve all outstanding issues. Failure to meet these demands could trigger another round of industrial action.
 

Dispute Over Allowances

At the centre of the crisis is the government’s decision to halt the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table (PAT), which was expected to take effect in April 2026.

NARD said the move contradicts earlier agreements reached after a prolonged strike in 2025.

The revised allowance structure includes:

    •    Call duty payments
    •    Shift allowances
    •    Rural posting incentives
    •    Non-clinical duty compensation

Trust Issues Between Doctors and Government

Although the new allowance structure was initially scheduled for January 2026 and later shifted to February, the association claims the government attempted to discontinue it by April.

According to NARD, this action undermines trust and violates previously agreed terms.

Key Demands From NARD

The doctors are demanding:

    •    Immediate reversal of the PAT suspension
    •    Payment of outstanding salaries and allowances
    •    Settlement of promotion arrears
    •    Completion of the 2026 residency training fund payments

What Happens Next?

While doctors have resumed work, tensions remain high. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the government meets the April 21 deadline or risks another nationwide strike.