Physicians-in-training set to launch countrywide work stoppage on Tuesday

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The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced plans for a nationwide engagement beginning Tuesday, April 7, following the Federal Government’s review of the Professional Allowance Table policy framework and constructive dialogue.

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The Secretary General, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, disclosed this in a Saturday statement, noting that the decision followed extensive consultations among members nationwide and reflected a shared commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery and collaboration efforts.

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He explained that the resolution was reached during an Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held virtually, during which participants encouraged continued engagement with the government to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes for doctors and patients.

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According to the association, the planned action will commence at 12 a.m. Tuesday, involving members across federal, state, and private institutions, while maintaining openness to dialogue and ongoing timely resolution efforts.

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The association emphasised the importance of reinstating the Professional Allowance Table, describing it as vital to enhancing welfare, boosting morale, and supporting the retention of skilled medical professionals nationwide.

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It highlighted the need to promptly pay promotion and salary arrears owed to resident doctors, expressing optimism that ongoing discussions would facilitate resolutions that benefit practitioners and the healthcare system.

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NARD further encouraged the timely release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, noting that improved funding would enhance training opportunities, professional development, and overall capacity within Nigeria’s healthcare sector going forward.

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The association reiterated the importance of settling outstanding allowance arrears, expressing confidence that collaborative efforts among stakeholders would ease financial pressures and reinforce commitment among resident doctors serving communities nationwide.

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Members were encouraged to remain united and focused, as leadership underscored that ongoing engagement aimed to secure fairness, strengthen working conditions, and promote a more resilient and responsive healthcare system nationwide.

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The association reaffirmed its commitment to sustained dialogue with authorities, expressing optimism that its efforts would yield positive outcomes, while reinforcing its role in advancing members’ welfare and professional interests.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Professional Allowance Table is designed to standardise doctors’ remuneration, ensuring consistent payments and supporting improved administration across the national healthcare system.

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Observers note that ongoing discussions between NARD and the Federal Government continue to provide opportunities to resolve welfare concerns, strengthen cooperation, and ensure the effective, uninterrupted delivery of quality healthcare services nationwide.

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