Relief spread across Nigeria’s healthcare sector on Tuesday as doctors suspended a planned nationwide strike, allowing hospitals to resume normal operations. The decision by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) came after last-minute negotiations with the Federal Government.
The association had earlier declared an indefinite strike over unresolved issues, including delayed salaries, unpaid allowances, and welfare concerns affecting its members. However, following high-level interventions led by Kashim Shettima, alongside Health Minister Ali Pate and Labour Minister Muhammad Dingyadi, the union agreed to suspend the action.
In a joint statement signed by NARD President, Dr Muhammed Suleiman, and other executives, the association said the suspension reflects “cautious optimism” that the government will address its demands. The union, however, issued a two-week ultimatum, warning that failure to meet its conditions could trigger a fresh strike.
Key demands include the payment of salary arrears, settlement of 19 months’ unpaid allowances, release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, and the restoration of the revised Professional Allowance Table. NARD stressed that the government must take concrete and verifiable steps within the deadline.
Across major hospitals, patients and healthcare workers welcomed the development. At Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau State Specialist Hospital, normal services resumed, with patients expressing relief after fears of disrupted care.
Medical personnel also acknowledged the importance of resident doctors in sustaining hospital operations. A consultant noted that without them, healthcare delivery becomes significantly strained, particularly in non-emergency cases.
At University of Benin Teaching Hospital, services continued despite the looming strike, although outpatient care experienced minor disruptions. Similarly, activities remained largely stable at Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, where local negotiations had delayed participation in the strike.
Patients and relatives urged both parties to find lasting solutions to recurring industrial actions, which often disrupt medical services nationwide.
While hospitals have returned to normalcy for now, uncertainty remains as stakeholders await the government’s response within the two-week window. The outcome of ongoing discussions is expected to determine whether stability will be sustained or another disruption will follow.
