The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a stern warning that it may be forced to resume its suspended nationwide industrial action. This will happen if the Federal Government fails to fulfil its promises before the two-week suspension period elapses.
Two-Week Ultimatum and Unfulfilled Promises
Speaking on Monday, January 12, 2026, leaders of the association in Ogun State expressed deep frustration over the government's continued neglect. Dr. Quadri Olanipekun, President of NARD at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Abeokuta, stated that the association's National Executive Council (NEC) would decide the next move. He emphasized that the strike was only suspended due to a direct intervention led by Vice President Kashim Shettima and pressure from stakeholders.
The doctors' demands, which remain largely unaddressed, include the non-payment of arrears, inadequate medical equipment, and severe salary delays. Shockingly, some doctors are owed up to 18 months in salaries, while House Officers have not been paid for four to six months. The association also highlighted issues like the unjust termination of members' appointments and dangerously long working hours due to severe staff shortages.
A Mass Exodus and a Plea for Welfare
Dr. Olanipekun lamented the crippling brain drain affecting Nigeria's health sector. He revealed that in the last five years, the country has lost around 20,000 resident doctors to migration in search of better opportunities. This has left fewer than 10,000 in the system, placing an unbearable burden on those who remain.
"The masses need to know that this struggle is for them," Olanipekun stressed. He urged the government to consider the welfare of doctors who choose to stay and serve their country despite the challenges. The current situation, he warned, is unsustainable and directly impacts the quality of healthcare available to ordinary Nigerians.
"We may have to go on strike. I cannot decide. It is the NEC that can decide on the next move... If FG fail to stick to their words, the NEC will decide," Olanipekun stated, while expressing hope for a tangible resolution.
Echoes of Concern from Aro Neuropsychiatric Hospital
The sentiment was echoed by Dr. Chidi Ikwumezie, President of NARD at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Aro, Abeokuta. While clarifying he could not speak for the entire NEC, Dr. Ikwumezie voiced a collective hope that all agreements reached with the Federal Government would be honoured before the deadline.
"I cannot speak for every member of the National Executive Council (NEC), but we are hopeful that all that is agreed upon will be done," Ikwumezie said. This underscores the precarious nature of the truce and the critical need for immediate government action to prevent another debilitating strike in the health sector.
