The nationwide strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has entered its fourth day, disrupting healthcare services in major hospitals across the country as the Federal Government appeals for an end to the industrial action.

Minister of State for Health, Dr. Iziaq Salako, speaking at a press conference in Abuja, urged the striking doctors to suspend the action, noting that the government had addressed a significant portion of their demands.

“The Federal Government has cleared about 60 percent of the backlog of arrears owed to health workers,” Salako said. “We are committed to ensuring that all outstanding issues are resolved through continued engagement.”

However, NARD President, Dr. Mohammed Suleiman, said the union would not call off the strike until the government fully meets its obligations.

“Our strike remains total, comprehensive, and indefinite until all pending issues are addressed,” Suleiman stated.

The doctors are demanding payment of outstanding arrears, allowances, and entitlements, including the 25/35 percent CONMESS review, promotion arrears, upgrade arrears, and accoutrement allowance.

NARD maintained that its demands represent the minimum required to sustain Nigeria’s healthcare system and protect the dignity of medical professionals.

In response to the strike, the Federal Government announced plans to release ₦11.99 billion within 72 hours to offset part of the outstanding salaries and allowances owed to medical professionals nationwide.