Federal Government, Resident Doctors Reach Agreement Ahead of August 10 Deadline

ABUJA, NIGERIA – The Federal Government has successfully reached an agreement with the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), potentially averting a nationwide indefinite strike that was scheduled to begin on August 10, 2026.

The breakthrough came during a high-level intervention meeting convened by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

The session brought together key stakeholders from the Ministries of Health, Labour and Employment, and Finance, alongside representatives from the Budget Office of the Federation, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

Timelines Set for Salary Arrears and House Officers

Speaking after the meeting, NARD President Dr. Muhammad Ismail disclosed that the government’s intervention yielded concrete timelines to resolve the doctors’ long-standing grievances.

According to Dr. Ismail, agreements were finalized regarding outstanding salary and promotion arrears. Relevant government agencies are legally expected to commence implementation within one week.

Furthermore, the Federal Government agreed to a structural shift ensuring that house officers receive their monthly salaries before the 10th day of every month to prevent future financial delays.

Progress on Allowances and Collective Bargaining

Addressing outstanding professional allowance arrears, the NARD President noted that discussions revealed the total amount involved was lower than initially projected. The government is now expected to provide a definitive timeline for these payments.

The meeting also reviewed the long-awaited Collective Bargaining Agreement between Nigerian doctors and the state. The Ministries of Health and Labour have been directed to accelerate this process, ensuring proper budgetary provisions are captured in upcoming fiscal cycles.

Government Tackles Insecurity and Assaults on Health Workers

A major highlight of the deliberation focused on the rising wave of violence against medical professionals. NARD reported that 31 doctors and more than 20 other healthcare workers have been violently assaulted in the line of duty within the last ten months.

To combat this, the Ministry of Health will issue immediate directives to public hospitals to fortify security architectures and create safer working environments.

Additionally, the Chief of Staff to the President committed to supporting federal legislation that will classify assaults on healthcare workers as an aggravated offence.

NEC to Make Final Decision on Planned Strike

Despite the positive outcomes, NARD clarified that the planned industrial action has not been officially called off.

Dr. Ismail stated that the national leadership will present the resolutions of the meeting to its National Executive Council (NEC). The council will review the commitments made by the government and vote on the next line of action before the August 10 deadline.