Healthcare services across Nigeria have been severely affected as the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) officially begins an indefinite strike. The action follows the expiration of a 30-day ultimatum given to the Federal Government over unfulfilled agreements and unmet demands.

NARD President, Dr. Mohammad Suleiman, explained that the decision was not made lightly. He noted that doctors are aware of the hardship patients may face but insisted the strike became necessary after several dialogues and promises from the government were ignored.

According to him, the doctors’ demands are focused on improving the country’s collapsing health system. They include better pay, improved working conditions, adequate staffing, prompt payment of arrears, and essential medical equipment. Suleiman stressed that exhausted and poorly supported doctors cannot provide safe and quality care for Nigerians.

He appealed to citizens and stakeholders—including labour unions, civil society groups, and traditional leaders—to support the cause, emphasizing that the strike is for the benefit of all Nigerians who rely on public healthcare. Abuja resident doctors also confirmed they would join the industrial action due to pending demands from the FCT administration.

The strike officially began November 1, 2025, and hospitals nationwide are already witnessing shutdowns and service disruptions as resident doctors withdraw their services. Citizens have been urged to stand with the doctors and call on government authorities to urgently resolve the matter so that healthcare services can resume.