The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has announced plans to commence an indefinite nationwide strike from midnight on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, following a dispute with the Federal Government over the implementation of a revised allowance structure.
The decision was reached during an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held virtually on Saturday, where members expressed concern over what they described as the government’s move to halt the Professional Allowance Table agreed upon after their 2025 industrial action.
Addressing journalists after the meeting, NARD President, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, said the development had left the association with no choice but to resume strike action.
“The council was briefed on the Federal Government’s decision to discontinue the implementation of the Professional Allowance Table. This is unacceptable and undermines the agreements previously reached,” he said.
He added that the strike would be total and indefinite until the government addresses the association’s concerns.
“Following extensive deliberations, we resolved to embark on a comprehensive and indefinite strike beginning at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026,” Ibrahim stated.
The disagreement centres on the revised allowance package, which includes payments for call duties, shift work, rural postings, and other non-clinical responsibilities. Although the implementation began earlier in the year after delays, NARD alleged that authorities now plan to discontinue it.
The association is demanding an immediate reversal of the decision, alongside the payment of outstanding entitlements.
“We demand the continuation of the Professional Allowance Table implementation, payment of promotion and salary arrears in affected centres, and the release of funds for the 2026 Medical Residency Training Programme,” Ibrahim said.
“There must also be immediate settlement of the outstanding 19 months’ arrears tied to the allowance.”
