The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has extended its indefinite strike, demanding a long-overdue Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and a review of the outdated Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
The industrial action entered its 15th day on Saturday, affecting medical services nationwide.
NARD’s strike has disrupted operations in 91 hospitals, including federal teaching hospitals, specialist institutions, and federal medical centres, raising concerns over patient care and the stability of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The union insists that the delay in concluding the CBA has eroded morale among doctors while living costs continue to rise.
“Dear Nigerians, Doctors deserve a fair deal! For long we’ve waited for a Collective Bargaining Agreement, a simple, written promise that ensures fairness, clear work terms, and proper pay. But the government keeps delaying, while doctors face rising costs and crumbling morale,” the union stated in a post on X.
The union has submitted a 19-point demand list to the government, which includes payment of arrears under the CONMESS structure, disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, prompt payment of specialist allowances, recognition of postgraduate qualifications, and improved working conditions.
NARD emphasised that these measures are vital for sustaining doctors and maintaining functional healthcare services.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the Ministry of Health to resolve the strike urgently, assuring that the government is addressing doctors’ concerns.
Despite this, NARD said delays in finalising the CBA and reviewing salaries continue to demoralise healthcare professionals.
“We demand the immediate conclusion of the CBA and review of the outdated CONMESS salary structure,” the union stressed, highlighting the urgent need to stabilise the medical workforce.
Medical experts and hospital administrators have warned that the prolonged strike could exacerbate public health challenges if unresolved.
Meanwhile, NARD has vowed to continue its action until the government meets its demands, asserting that fairness for doctors is essential for quality healthcare delivery.
