NARD Extends Ultimatum, Threatens Nationwide Strike

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced a four-week extension of its ultimatum to the federal government, threatening a nationwide strike if welfare issues affecting its members are not resolved. This decision was made during an extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held virtually on Saturday.

The previous 21-day ultimatum expired without satisfactory action from the government. NARD expressed dissatisfaction with the federal government's failure to disburse the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) and the ongoing delays in payment of house officer salaries.

The association also raised concerns about the management of hospitals, particularly at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, which has been accused of victimizing resident doctors. NARD condemned attempts to reintroduce bench fees and highlighted the refusal of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital to provide meals for resident doctors.

The association warned that industrial harmony could not be guaranteed beyond the new deadline and reiterated its commitment to dialogue while reserving the right to take necessary actions if demands remain unaddressed.