The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its indefinite nationwide strike following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Federal Government.
NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, announced the suspension on Saturday in a post shared on his X handle, noting that the decision was reached after extensive conciliatory meetings with government officials.
Read also: Strike: Resident Doctors Issues Fresh Ultimatum to FG
According to Suleiman, the MoU outlines the government’s commitments across NARD’s 19-point demand, including unresolved promotion arrears, salary backlogs, and allowances. He disclosed that the compilation of promotion arrears by chief medical directors and medical directors is still ongoing, with a four-week deadline set for payment.
On salary arrears, Suleiman stated that the Office of the Head of Civil Service of the Federation had issued a clear directive regarding specialist allowances, while implementation responsibilities now lie with the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission. He added that a committee has recommended the reabsorption of the “Lokoja 5” into the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, with full reinstatement expected within two weeks.
The MoU also captures ongoing processes for the payment of the 25% and 35% allowances, as well as the 2024 accoutrement allowance arrears.
NARD embarked on the strike on November 1, protesting unfair remuneration, unpaid salary arrears, poor working conditions, inadequate staffing, and insufficient medical infrastructure.
The doctors also demanded payment of the outstanding 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, settlement of several months of salary arrears, recognition of postgraduate membership certificates, and the resolution of welfare concerns affecting members in Kaduna and at LAUTECH Teaching Hospital.
The suspension marks a temporary truce as both parties move to implement agreed resolutions.
