Adedokun Waliyu 
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has suspended its planned indefinite strike following the Federal Government’s reversal of the implementation of the reviewed Professional Allowance Table (PAT) and renewed assurances on outstanding payments.
The decision was reached after an emergency National Executive Council meeting held virtually. The association had earlier planned a total strike over the suspension of the revised allowance structure and unresolved welfare issues affecting resident doctors nationwide.
In a communiqué signed by NARD President Dr Mohammad Usman Suleiman and other officials, the association confirmed that the government has now reversed its earlier decision, with the new allowance structure expected to reflect in salaries going forward.
NARD also noted the government’s commitment to settling outstanding promotion and salary arrears owed to resident doctors in various institutions. In addition, approval has been secured for the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, with assurances that the disbursement process will be completed.
The association stated that the Budget Office is ready to begin the process of paying the outstanding 19 months’ arrears of the Professional Allowance.
Despite these developments, NARD expressed concern over delays in the payment of house officers’ salaries and called for urgent action to address the issue.
Following its deliberations, the association demanded sustained implementation of the reviewed allowance structure, prompt payment of all arrears, and expedited disbursement of the residency training fund. It also called for immediate steps to clear the backlog of unpaid allowances and for a stakeholders’ meeting to resolve ongoing salary delays affecting house officers.
The association said it would review progress at its next Ordinary General Meeting.
NARD also appreciated the interventions of Bola Tinubu, Kashim Shettima, and other government officials and stakeholders in resolving the dispute.
