Resident Doctors Give FG Four-Week Ultimatum Over Unmet Demands

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has issued a fresh four-week ultimatum to the Federal Government to fulfil all outstanding agreements relating to salaries, allowances, and welfare or risk another industrial action.

Naija News reports that the association announced this at the end of its January National Executive Council (NEC) meeting and scientific conference held in Jos, Plateau State, between January 25 and 29, 2026.

In a communiqué jointly signed by NARD President, Dr Mohammad Suleiman; Secretary-General, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim; and Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim, the group also confirmed an extension of the suspension of its Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike (TICS) for another four weeks.

“In recognition of the progress made by the Federal Government towards addressing the legitimate demands of Nigerian resident doctors, the NEC has resolved to extend the suspension of the Total Indefinite Comprehensive Strike for a further period of four weeks,” the communiqué stated.

The NEC appreciated the roles played by President Bola Tinubu, Vice President, Kashim Shettima, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and other stakeholders in ongoing negotiations.

It commended the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) for facilitating the reinstatement of disengaged doctors at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, and addressing arrears of the 25% and 35% CONMESS and accoutrement allowances.

The IPPIS reportedly assured the association that payments would be made within two weeks.

Additionally, the Federal Ministry of Finance was said to have confirmed the forwarding of promotion and salary arrears to relevant authorities for processing.

Despite some progress, NARD expressed frustration over persistent issues, including the delayed circulation of the directive confirming CONMESS 3 as the approved entry level for medical doctors.

The association also condemned the non-payment of the Professional Allowance captured in the 2026 Appropriation Act, as well as lingering salary arrears in several federal and state health institutions.

The communiqué further warned of deteriorating labour relations at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, calling for urgent government intervention to avoid escalation.

NARD urged the Federal Government to ensure the timely release of training funds, prompt payment of all entitlements, and sustained investment in health infrastructure to prevent further disruption of services.

Held at the Eliel Centre, Gold and Base, Jos, the conference had as its theme: “Innovating for Equity: Technology as a Bridge between Poverty and Health.”

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, APC National Chairman (represented), while the event was chaired by ASUU President, Prof. Piwuna Christopher.

Traditional and medical dignitaries, including the Gbong Gwom Jos, top officials of the Nigerian Medical Association, and chief medical directors from major institutions, also attended.