The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended its indefinite strike, which began on November 1, after 29 days. The decision was announced by NARD National President Dr. Mohammad Suleiman on Saturday, following an extraordinary National Executive Council (NEC) meeting. Dr. Suleiman said the suspension results from a series of conciliatory meetings with the Federal Government, culminating in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines the status of the association’s 19‑point demands.
The MoU addresses several outstanding issues. Payment of promotion arrears is expected to be completed within four weeks, and salary arrears are also slated for clearance in the same timeframe. The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has issued a directive on the specialist allowance, and the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission is expected to take the necessary steps toward its implementation. A committee report on the “Lokoja Five” – resident doctors disengaged from the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja – recommends their reabsorption, which should be fully implemented within two weeks.
Further provisions in the MoU include finalising processes to address failed or omitted payments related to the 25/35 percent review and accoutrement allowance. Issues concerning skipping and entry‑level placement have been resolved following an OHCSF directive, and all outstanding matters relating to house officers have been settled. An interim directive has been issued to Chief Medical Directors and Managing Directors to stop “obnoxious clauses” in locum engagements, and an advisory has been sent to health‑facility heads to limit excessive call duties and ensure adequate breaks for doctors.
The NEC has resolved to suspend the strike for four weeks to allow for the implementation of the agreed‑upon measures. During this window, sustained engagement with Nigerians and the Federal Government will continue. If the measures are not fully implemented, the strike may resume. The suspension is a significant development, enabling the continuation of medical services while addressing resident doctors’ grievances, and the Federal Government’s response during the four‑week period will be closely watched.
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