Resident doctors across Nigeria have embarked on a five-day warning strike after accusing the Federal Government of neglecting their welfare and failing to resolve long-standing demands.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) said the strike became inevitable following unpaid allowances, accumulated salary arrears, and unresolved welfare concerns affecting its members nationwide.
In a statement released on Friday, NARD Secretary-General, Dr. Oluwasola Odunbaku, confirmed that the strike officially commenced at 8:00 am. He urged all chapter leaders to guide their members accordingly, stressing that the industrial action was a collective decision of the association.
“Good morning, NEC Members, thank you all for your continued cooperation and understanding. As clearly stated in our earlier communique, the strike is scheduled to commence at 8:00 am today (Friday). All Centre leadership is expected to guide their members accordingly,” Odunbaku wrote in his memo.
The doctors explained that the Federal Government had been given a fresh ultimatum, which expired without any meaningful intervention, leaving them with no option but to down tools.
According to the association, the silence and inaction from the authorities reflect a lack of commitment to addressing the welfare of healthcare workers, despite repeated engagements and assurances.
This action follows a series of threats and ultimatums by NARD in recent weeks. Just 24 hours earlier, the association had extended its deadline, giving the government more time to act, but said its patience had finally run out.
With the strike now in effect, medical services in many public hospitals are expected to face disruptions. Patients may encounter delays in treatment or outright cancellations of appointments as doctors withdraw their services.
NARD maintained that the strike was only a warning, hinting that a total and indefinite shutdown could follow if the government continues to ignore their demands.
The association has urged members of the public to understand their plight, arguing that improved welfare for doctors would ultimately translate into better healthcare delivery across Nigeria.
Further updates on the progress of the strike are expected to be communicated by the leadership of NARD in the coming days.