By Muhammad Mamman
Nigeria’s resident doctors have suspended their nationwide strike after 29 days, issuing a fresh ultimatum to the federal government over unresolved welfare and working-condition demands.
The decision followed a marathon meeting of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), which began the industrial action nearly a month ago over issues including unpaid allowances, hazard pay, and the need for improved hospital infrastructure.
NARD leaders said the suspension is temporary and meant to give the government room to implement agreements reached during negotiations. They warned, however, that doctors would resume the strike if authorities fail to meet their commitments within the new deadline.
“We are stepping back in the interest of Nigerians, but our concerns remain urgent,” a senior NARD official said after the meeting. “This ultimatum is a final call for the government to act.”
The strike had disrupted services in major public hospitals across the country, with consultants and other medical staff struggling to manage the patient load.
Government officials have not yet issued a formal response to the doctors’ new deadline, though the Ministry of Health previously said it was working to address the union’s demands.
NARD said it will continue monitoring the implementation process and will not hesitate to escalate actions if progress stalls.
