Resident doctors begin strike after 30-day ultimatum expires

Hospitals across Nigeria have been thrown into crisis as resident doctors commenced an indefinite strike on Saturday, following the expiration of a 30-day ultimatum earlier issued to the Federal Government.

In a statement signed by its President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) said the decision was unavoidable after repeated government failures to implement agreements reached in previous negotiations.

Suleiman emphasized that the strike was not driven by personal or political motives but by a deep concern for the survival of Nigeria’s healthcare system.

“We are fully aware of the pain this action may cause patients, but we can no longer ignore the poor conditions that threaten both doctors and the people they serve,” he said.

The association listed its demands to include payment of salary arrears, fair remuneration, improved working environments, provision of essential medical equipment, and adequate staffing to reduce excessive workloads.

Dr. Suleiman lamented that many doctors were overworked, underpaid, and mentally drained, warning that such conditions compromise patient safety and the quality of care.

He appealed to Nigerians, civil society organizations, religious and traditional leaders, and labour unions to stand with the doctors in urging the government to act swiftly.

“This is not a confrontation with the government. It is a call for reform — a plea for a healthcare system that values both caregivers and patients,” Suleiman said.

Resident doctors in Abuja have also joined the nationwide strike, citing unfulfilled promises by the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

NARD had earlier announced that the industrial action would begin on November 1, 2025, after the federal government failed to meet its commitments within the ultimatum period.