FG begins long-awaited payment of resident doctors’ salary arrears

Payment of outstanding salary arrears owed to resident doctors has begun, offering relief after months of agitation over welfare concerns in the public health sector.

The development was communicated to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) by its Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim, who confirmed that disbursements are already underway. The arrears stem from the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, widely known as CONMESS.

According to him, some doctors have started receiving payments covering periods ranging from one to six months, while others are still awaiting credit alerts.

“The leadership of NARD… is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears… has commenced,” the statement said.

He appealed for calm among members who are yet to be paid, assuring them that the process is ongoing and will be completed.

Ibrahim also pointed to a delay affecting a portion of the arrears tied to August salaries, attributing it to administrative bottlenecks that are being addressed.

“Payments for August are currently facing a few challenges that are being addressed… the August arrears may be delayed by about a week or two,” he added.

The CONMESS adjustment, which determines salary scales for medical and dental practitioners in government employment, has repeatedly triggered disputes between doctors and authorities, especially when implementation is delayed.

Resident doctors have long complained about poor welfare conditions, including unpaid entitlements and difficult working environments. These challenges have contributed to the steady migration of medical professionals seeking better opportunities abroad, further weakening Nigeria’s already stretched healthcare system.

Despite the ongoing disbursement, the association urged members experiencing payment issues after the exercise to report through their local leadership structures for resolution.

“We sincerely appreciate your patience, resilience, and continued trust… Be assured that we remain steadfast and committed to the welfare and well-being of all NARD members,” Ibrahim said.

FG begins long-awaited payment of resident doctors’ salary arre