The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its planned indefinite strike, which was scheduled to begin on Monday, January 12, 2026. The decision followed what NARD described as firm commitments from key stakeholders and direct intervention by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, acting on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.
The suspension was announced after a virtual emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on January 11, 2026. During the meeting, the association reviewed the status of its demands and assessed the progress made through sustained engagement with relevant authorities.
NARD's Secretary-General, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the suspension as "strategic and conditional," noting it was intended to allow time for an objective assessment of tangible progress at the association's next NEC meeting on January 25, 2026.
According to Ibrahim, the meeting extensively reviewed all outstanding issues affecting resident doctors, noting that progress had been recorded on several fronts. The lingering crisis at the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Lokoja, has been resolved. A new reconciliation committee has been constituted to ensure that all members remain in FTH Lokoja and to broker lasting peace.
Regarding the outstanding 25 and 35 percent CONMESS arrears, verified lists have been forwarded to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has formally written to the Ministry of Finance to facilitate payment.
On the issue of promotion and salary arrears, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has transmitted relevant lists to the Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office. Clarification has been issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, reaffirming CONMESS 3 as the recognized entry level. A multi-stakeholder committee has also been set up to address practice and work-hour regulation.
