Following an amicable resolution of their demands, the National Association of Resident Doctors on Tuesday announced the suspension of its planned strike.
The group, speaking after an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council, said there had been a positive response from the federal government concerning their demands on the payment of outstanding allowances and improvements in doctors’ welfare.
NARD said the suspension was informed by “progress made” in negotiations, particularly commitments on the prompt payment of salary arrears, hazard allowances, and steps toward resolving issues surrounding the Medical Residency Training Fund.
Although the association did not declare a full resolution of the dispute, it noted that the government had shown “renewed willingness” to address the concerns that triggered the strike threat.
Resident doctors in Nigeria have repeatedly clashed with the federal government over welfare issues, including irregular salary payments, inadequate hazard allowances, and poor hospital infrastructure.
The recurring disputes have contributed to a brain drain in the health sector, with many Nigerian doctors seeking better opportunities abroad.
Adedeji said the strike was suspended after an extraordinary National Executive Council meeting, during which NARD directed members nationwide to resume duties by 8 am on Wednesday.
