Medical professionals in Nigeria launch indefinite strikes

Medical professionals in Nigeria have launched multiple indefinite strikes across different sectors of the healthcare and academic systems.

The National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria (NARD) commenced a nationwide strike following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum to the federal government. Union President Dr. Aliyu Sokomba cited failed negotiations regarding industrial disputes, including the non-payment of special allowances and inadequate protective gear in state-owned medical centers. While doctors working in COVID-19 isolation and treatment centers are temporarily exempt, they have been given a two-week grace period before joining the industrial action.

In Benue State, medical lecturers under the Nigerian Association of Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) have also begun an indefinite strike. The lecturers at the College of Health Sciences and Benue State University Teaching Hospital are demanding the payment of 25 months of accrued arrears under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), the remittance of outstanding pension deductions, and the payment of promotion arrears. This action is expected to disrupt teaching, examinations, and the supervision of both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students.