NARD suspends nationwide strike following Shettima’s intervention but issues fresh two week ultimatum

Nigerian resident doctors halt planned strike following talks with VP Shettima, issuing a two-week ultimatum to settle 19 months of unpaid allowances.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 8, 2026, 3:43 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from LEADERSHIP

Mediation Prevents Immediate Healthcare Paralysis

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has officially suspended its planned nationwide industrial action following a series of high level meetings with the presidency and key cabinet members. The strike, which was scheduled to commence at midnight on April 7, was averted after interventions from Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Coordinating Ministers of Health and Finance. During an emergency virtual meeting, the National Executive Council of NARD reviewed these government overtures and opted for a temporary suspension to allow for further negotiations.

The Reversal of Professional Allowance Decisions

The immediate catalyst for the averted strike was the federal government’s controversial decision to reverse the implementation of the reviewed Professional Allowance Table. NARD leaders noted that the government’s recent willingness to walk back this reversal provided a basis for what they termed cautious optimism. This shift, combined with the personal involvement of the Director General of the Department of State Services and the Minister of Labour, has signaled a potential breakthrough in the long standing welfare disputes that have frequently destabilized the Nigerian health sector.

Lingering Financial Disputes and Unpaid Arrears

Despite the diplomatic progress, the association highlighted that several critical financial grievances remain unaddressed. NARD remains firm on its demand for the immediate payment of 19 months of outstanding arrears related to the Professional Allowance. Additionally, there are significant delays in the disbursement of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund and unpaid promotion arrears across various health institutions. The association maintains that these financial obligations are non negotiable components of the doctors’ welfare package.