ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate resolution of the nationwide doctors’ strike, prompting the release of N11.9 billion in unpaid allowances and a pledge to recruit more health workers.
The directive comes in response to an indefinite strike declared by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) on Nov. 1, which has disrupted services across public hospitals. The doctors are demanding payment of salary arrears, improved working conditions, and full implementation of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
Following Tinubu’s instruction, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare announced that N11.995 billion will be disbursed within 72 hours to settle outstanding accoutrement allowances owed to doctors and other health workers.
“President Tinubu has mandated us to ensure that doctors return to work without delay,” said Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, during a press briefing in Abuja. “We are committed to resolving this crisis swiftly and sustainably.”
Despite the federal intervention, resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (ARD-FCTA) have declared a separate indefinite strike, citing unmet local demands. The group said its action would continue even if NARD suspends its own strike.
In a letter titled “A Passionate Appeal to the Commander-in-Chief of the Federation,” NARD had earlier urged Tinubu to intervene, warning that Nigeria’s health system was “on the verge of collapse.” The association listed 19 unresolved issues, including delayed salaries and poor welfare packages.
While the government’s financial response has been welcomed by some, NARD leaders remain cautious. “We appreciate the gesture, but our demands go beyond payments,” said NARD President Dr. Dele Abdullahi. “We need structural reforms and a clear timeline for implementation.”
Doctors have also voiced skepticism on social media. “We’ve seen promises before,” one user wrote. “Until we see lasting change, we’re not backing down.”
The Ministry of Health has urged all striking doctors to resume work, assuring that negotiations will continue. However, NARD has not officially suspended its strike, pending further consultations.
The strike has raised concerns about the state of Nigeria’s healthcare system, with patients facing delays and limited access to care. Tinubu’s directive is seen as a critical step toward restoring stability, but observers say lasting peace will require deeper reforms.
