By Desire Emmanuel
Another major crisis seems to be looming at various tertiary hospitals in the country as resident doctors, under the aegis of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), announced plans to embark on a nationwide strike from Tuesday, April 7.
The doctors said the decision to embark on strike was due to the Federal Government’s plan to remove the Professional Allowance Table (PAT).
In a statement issued after an extraordinary virtual meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC) on Saturday, April 4, the association, through its Secretary-General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the government’s move as “unfortunate” and capable of disrupting the fragile healthcare system.
The NEC said it deliberated on the development and resolved to commence a “total and comprehensive strike” from midnight on Tuesday, April 7, if the decision is not reversed.
NARD said it is demanding the immediate reinstatement of the Professional Allowance Table, warning that its cessation from April 2026 undermines agreed welfare structures for resident doctors across the country.
The association also called for the immediate payment of promotion and salary arrears owed to its members in some centres, noting that delays have worsened the financial strain on doctors.
It further urged the Federal Government to conclude the process for the payment of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund (MTRF) without delay, stressing that the fund is critical to the training and development of resident doctors.
Additionally, the doctors demanded the prompt settlement of 19 months’ outstanding arrears of the Professional Allowance under the PAT.
NARD leadership appealed to its members nationwide to remain united and committed as it seeks redress, insisting that the planned action is necessary to address what it described as persistent injustices in the health sector.
