Nigerian resident doctors nationwide strike
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has begun an indefinite nationwide strike in Nigeria. The strike started at midnight on Saturday, November 1, 2025, after all resident doctors in federal and state tertiary health institutions across the country were directed to withdraw their services completely and indefinitely.
The decision to strike came after repeated engagements and dialogues with the federal government failed to yield sufficient progress. According to Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, the NARD President, the government’s persistent failure to fulfil agreements and commitments made to members was the tipping point.
Among the demands of NARD are a fair increase in the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), payment of salary arrears, improved working conditions, adequate staffing, reduction of excessive workloads, and the provision of essential medical infrastructure. The association emphasised that their struggle is in the interest of the health-system’s survival and the well-being of all Nigerians, rather than for personal gain.
Hospitals and health facilities across Nigeria are already experiencing significant service disruptions. The strike underscores the growing pressure on the public health sector, which has long suffered from under-funding, staffing shortages, and deteriorating infrastructure. The doctors’ action signals the urgency of those issues and the critical need for government intervention.
