The NARD strike suspension has officially ended, and resident doctors have returned to work across Nigeria. The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) confirmed the development after an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting on Saturday. Meanwhile, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, NARD’s Secretary-General, assured that hospitals can now restore medical services.
MoU Leads to Strike Suspension
Following negotiations, NARD signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government to meet seven key demands. So far, two conditions, releasing the Professional Allowance Table and approving doctors’ entry level at CONMESS 3, have already been implemented. However, the remaining five demands—including arrears, reinstatement of Lokoja doctors, specialist allowances, and Membership Certificate matters—are expected to be addressed within four weeks.
Healthcare Services Resume
During the strike, about 11,000 resident doctors withdrew services, therefore disrupting patient care nationwide. With the NARD strike suspension, hospitals can now operate normally. Nevertheless, Dr. Ibrahim warned that the association will resume the strike if the government fails to meet the remaining commitments on time.
NARD’s Commitment to Patients
Dr. Ibrahim urged doctors to continue delivering essential services. Additionally, he asked the public to remain patient while hospitals restore full operations. Overall, the MoU provides a clear framework for addressing concerns and avoiding future disruptions
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