Fresh crisis as resident doctors begin indefinite strike Tuesday

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced an indefinite nationwide strike set to begin at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, citing the Federal Government’s planned halt of the revised Professional Allowance Table (PAT).

The decision, which could significantly disrupt healthcare services in public hospitals across Nigeria, was reached after a virtual extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on Saturday.

Speaking on the outcome, NARD National President, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the situation as “unfortunate,” accusing the Federal Government of pushing doctors toward another industrial action.

“The National Executive Council was informed about the Federal Government’s decision to remove the Professional Allowance Table, a development deemed unfortunate,” he said.

“Following extensive deliberations, the NEC resolved to embark on a total industrial and comprehensive strike beginning at 12:00 am on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.”

The dispute stems from a previously agreed revised Professional Allowance Table negotiated after NARD’s prolonged strike in 2025. The agreement included improved pay structures such as call duty allowances, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and payments for non-clinical duties.

Although implementation was initially scheduled for January 2026 and later shifted to February, NARD alleged that the government now plans to discontinue the process by April—an action the association says breaches prior agreements and erodes trust.

Healthcare analysts note that disputes over wages and welfare are a recurring issue in Nigeria’s health sector, often leading to strikes by medical unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association. These disruptions typically reduce access to care, especially in public hospitals serving the majority of citizens.

Outlining the association’s demands, Ibrahim called for an immediate reversal of the decision and payment of all outstanding entitlements.

“We demand the reversal of the decision to cease the implementation of the PAT starting in April 2026,” he said.

“There must be immediate payment of promotion arrears and salary arrears in affected centres, as well as the prompt conclusion of the process of paying the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund.”

“We also insist on the immediate processing and payment of the outstanding 19 months’ arrears of the Professional Allowance.”

He further urged members nationwide to remain united in pursuing their demands.

“The NARD leadership calls on its members to unite in the fight against this injustice and to pursue it to a logical conclusion,” Ibrahim added.

The planned strike has raised concerns about its impact on Nigeria’s already strained healthcare system. Resident doctors play a critical role in tertiary hospitals, handling a large share of patient care.

Nigeria continues to face a severe shortage of medical personnel, with doctor-to-patient ratios far below the World Health Organization’s recommended standard of one doctor to 600 patients. Current estimates suggest the ratio is closer to one doctor per 5,000 patients, particularly in underserved areas.

An indefinite strike could result in the shutdown of outpatient services, delays in surgeries, and increased pressure on private healthcare providers, heightening concerns among patients and health stakeholders.