The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has warned of a possible nationwide strike over unresolved welfare concerns and the government’s failure to honour previous agreements.
In an exclusive interview with ADBN TV, NARD’s Second Vice President, Dr. Kwarshek Kevin, said the union’s long-standing grievances — including unpaid entitlements, improved working conditions, and full implementation of past commitments — remain unaddressed despite repeated appeals.
Dr. Kevin disclosed that although discussions have been held with the Federal Government, no concrete commitments or timelines have been provided to resolve the issues, describing the situation as “largely stagnant.”
He warned that if the government fails to act within the stipulated time, NARD may begin a phased escalation, starting with a total withdrawal of services across public hospitals.
While acknowledging the potential impact of such action on patients and healthcare delivery, Dr. Kevin said the association could no longer overlook the worsening conditions faced by doctors nationwide.
He further called on President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Health, and other key stakeholders to urgently initiate comprehensive reforms to improve hospital infrastructure, staffing, and welfare standards.
NARD stressed that without sustained structural changes, the cycle of industrial action in Nigeria’s healthcare system may continue.
