Resident doctors declare nationwide indefinite strike from August 10
By Ben Ngwakwe, Gombe
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has declared an indefinite nationwide industrial action from August 10, 2026, over the Federal Government’s failure to implement agreements reached with the association and address lingering welfare and workplace concerns.
The decision was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of NARD’s National Executive Council meeting and Annual National Scientific Conference held in Gombe on Thursday.
Addressing journalists, the National President of NARD, Dr. Muhammed Usman Suleiman, said the strike had become necessary due to the government’s inability to resolve critical issues affecting resident doctors across the country.
Suleiman said members had continued to face challenges including alleged intimidation, harassment and physical assaults in some federal health institutions, poor welfare conditions, unpaid allowances, inadequate healthcare infrastructure and denial of professional entitlements.
He said despite several engagements with relevant government authorities, most of the issues raised by the association remained unresolved.
“The strike is unavoidable due to circumstances beyond the control of the association. Our members can no longer continue to work under conditions that undermine their welfare, safety and professional dignity,” he said.
The NARD president urged the Federal Government to urgently address the association’s demands before the commencement of the strike to prevent further disruption to healthcare delivery nationwide.
The conference, themed “Strengthening Healthcare Systems: Resident Doctors at the Forefront,” brought together resident doctors from across the country to discuss ways of improving Nigeria’s healthcare system and enhancing the welfare of medical professionals.
The event was hosted by the Chief Medical Director of the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, Prof. Yusuf Mohammed Abdullahi, who served as the chief host.