The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has announced the resumption of a total, indefinite, and comprehensive nationwide strike beginning Tuesday, April 7, 2026, following the Federal Government’s decision to reverse the implementation of the reviewed Professional Allowance Table (PAT).
The decision was reached during an emergency virtual meeting of the association’s Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) held on April 4, where members deliberated on the implications of the policy reversal on doctors’ welfare, remuneration, and the overall stability of healthcare delivery in Nigeria.
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Key Observations
NARD expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Federal Government’s actions, describing the reversal of the PAT as a breach of prior agreements and a setback to existing remuneration structures. The council noted that the move is ill-timed and could further worsen the already challenging working conditions faced by resident doctors nationwide.
The association also raised concerns over:
- Persistent delays in the payment of promotion and salary arrears
- Slow progress in disbursing the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF)
- Continued delay in settling 19 months’ outstanding professional allowance arrears
According to the council, these issues reflect a pattern of neglect and lack of commitment to the welfare of healthcare workers.
Resolutions and Demands
In response, NARD issued a series of demands, including:
- Immediate reversal of the PAT implementation decision
- Payment of all outstanding promotion and salary arrears
- Prompt release of the 2026 MRTF
- Full settlement of the 19-month professional allowance arrears
Strike Action Begins April 7
Citing the government’s failure to meet its obligations, the association directed all its members nationwide to withdraw services indefinitely starting from midnight on April 7, 2026, until tangible steps are taken to address their demands.
The council also instructed its leadership at all levels to begin coordinated advocacy efforts and lawful media engagements to ensure compliance.
Call for Unity
NARD urged its members to remain calm, united, and resolute during the strike period, while appreciating their resilience and continued solidarity in the pursuit of improved welfare and fairness within the health sector.
The impending strike is expected to significantly impact healthcare services across Nigeria if swift intervention is not made by the Federal Government.
