The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has declared an indefinite nationwide strike starting 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, citing the Federal Government’s move to halt the implementation of the revised Professional Allowance Table (PAT)—a key part of agreements reached after last year’s 2025 industrial action.
The decision, which threatens to disrupt healthcare delivery across public hospitals, was taken at the conclusion of NARD’s virtual extraordinary National Executive Council meeting on Saturday.
NARD National President, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the government’s plan as “unfortunate” and warned it is pushing doctors toward industrial action again.
“The National Executive Council was informed about the Federal Government’s decision to remove the Professional Allowance Table, a development deemed unfortunate. After extensive deliberations, the NEC resolved to embark on a total industrial and comprehensive strike beginning at 12:00 a.m. on April 7,” he said.
The PAT, negotiated after a prolonged strike in 2025, covers improved remuneration for resident doctors, including call duty allowances, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and non-clinical duty payments. Although its rollout was delayed from January to February 2026, NARD claims the government plans to discontinue it by April—a move the association says undermines trust and violates prior agreements.
Dr Ibrahim outlined the union’s demands, including the reversal of the government’s decision, payment of promotion and salary arrears, completion of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, and settlement of 19 months’ outstanding Professional Allowance. He urged all members to remain united in pursuing justice.
Healthcare analysts warn the strike could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s already strained health system. Resident doctors are central to service delivery in tertiary hospitals, where doctor-to-patient ratios remain far below the World Health Organization’s recommended 1:600, with estimates in Nigeria closer to 1:5,000, especially in underserved areas.
An indefinite strike risks shutdowns of outpatient services, surgical delays, and increased pressure on private hospitals, raising concerns for patients and health advocates nationwide.
