The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has commenced a nationwide strike, raising concerns over disruptions to healthcare services across federal and state-owned hospitals.
The industrial action, which began on April 7, 2026, follows unresolved disputes between the association and the federal government over unpaid allowances and policy reversals.
Since the administration of Bola Tinubu began in May 2023, resident doctors have spent a cumulative 51 days on strike, reflecting persistent tensions in the health sector.
The immediate trigger for the latest strike is the government’s reported decision to halt the implementation of the revised Professional Allowance Table—an agreement reached after the doctors’ 2025 strike.
In a statement, NARD described the move as “unfortunate” and accused the government of forcing doctors into another avoidable industrial action.
The association’s demands include the immediate restoration of the allowance structure, payment of salary and promotion arrears, settlement of 19 months’ outstanding allowances, and release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund.
Speaking on the development, NARD Secretary-General, Shuaibu Ibrahim, said the association could reconsider its stance if the government reverses its decision.
“Once they give that reverse instruction… we will know,” he said.
The dispute centres on the Professional Allowance Table, which standardises payments for call duty, shift work, and other incentives critical to doctors’ welfare.
An analysis of previous actions shows a recurring pattern of strikes. In 2023, resident doctors embarked on a 17-day strike over welfare concerns and rising living costs following fuel subsidy removal. In 2025, they held a five-day warning strike in September and a 29-day strike in November.
Underlying issues include poor remuneration, delayed payments, inadequate training funding, and worsening working conditions. The mass migration of Nigerian doctors abroad has further strained the system, increasing workload and burnout among those who remain.
At the state level, branches such as Abia have confirmed full compliance with the national directive. The state NARD president, Godwin Alaede, said members are prepared for an indefinite strike.
“We are 100 per cent prepared to embark on the indefinite strike,” he said, while acknowledging the potential impact on patients.
As of the time of reporting, the federal ministry of health had yet to issue an official response, leaving uncertainty over how quickly the crisis may be resolved.
