Juliet Ezeh
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has declared an indefinite nationwide strike starting at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, citing the Federal Government’s plan to halt the implementation of the revised Professional Allowance Table (PAT).
The decision, announced following an extraordinary virtual National Executive Council meeting, risks crippling public healthcare services across Nigeria. NARD President, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the government’s move as “unfortunate” and warned that it undermines previous agreements reached after the 2025 strike.
“The NEC resolved to embark on a total industrial and comprehensive strike beginning at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026,” Ibrahim said. He stressed that the association demands an immediate reversal of the government’s decision, payment of promotion and salary arrears, and settlement of the outstanding 19 months’ Professional Allowance.
Healthcare analysts warn that the strike could severely impact public hospitals, where resident doctors form the backbone of service delivery, particularly in outpatient care and surgeries. Nigeria already faces a critical doctor shortage, with ratios far below WHO recommendations — one doctor per 5,000 patients in underserved areas.
The looming strike raises concerns about patient care, delays in medical services, and further pressure on private hospitals. Experts say repeated disputes over allowances threaten to exacerbate brain drain, as doctors seek better working conditions abroad.
With millions of Nigerians potentially affected, stakeholders are urging urgent intervention by the Federal Government to negotiate with NARD and avert another disruption in the nation’s fragile healthcare system.
Juliet Ezeh is the founder and chief reporter at Westbridge Reporters with over 7 years of experience in journalism. She covers crime, industry, policy, and social developments, delivering timely and accurate reporting.