Manny Ita –
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has announced an indefinite nationwide strike set to commence at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, raising fresh concerns about disruptions in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The decision was reached during an emergency National Executive Council meeting, where members reviewed the Federal Government’s suspension of the revised Professional Allowance Table (PAT)—a key agreement from previous negotiations. The association maintains that the move undermines commitments made to improve doctors’ welfare and working conditions.
The revised allowance structure was intended to address critical areas such as call duty payments, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and compensation for additional responsibilities. However, resident doctors argue that halting its implementation represents a breach of trust and a setback to progress made in resolving long-standing issues.
In addition to the allowance dispute, the doctors are demanding the payment of outstanding salary arrears, settlement of promotion-related earnings, and improved funding for residency training programs. They insist the strike will remain in effect until all concerns are adequately addressed.
The planned industrial action is expected to significantly impact public hospitals across the country, as resident doctors make up a large portion of the medical workforce. Patients may experience delays in care, reduced services, and increased pressure on available medical personnel if the situation persists
