Nigeria’s resident doctors have rejected the Federal Government’s ₦11.995 billion payout offer, insisting that the actual arrears owed under the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure and Consolidated Health Salary Structure total ₦48 billion.

The indefinite strike, now in its third day, has crippled services at 91 public hospitals nationwide, leaving emergency wards understaffed and patients without care.

NARD President Dr. Mohammad Usman Suleiman described the government’s figures as inaccurate, stating that the approved sum addresses only two of the union’s 19 demands—accoutrement allowances and COVID-19 hazard balances—while ignoring broader issues such as welfare, salary adjustments, and service conditions. He emphasized that the arrears apply to all health workers, not just doctors, and that even within the ₦41 billion reportedly released, resident doctors receive less than their due share.

The strike followed the expiration of NARD’s October 23 ultimatum, prompting a full withdrawal of services except by consultants, who are now managing only admitted cases. Suleiman called for public support, framing the action as a necessary stand against unsustainable workloads and deteriorating mental health among medical professionals.

Across the country, hospitals are struggling to cope. In Ibadan, Lagos, Calabar, and Asaba, facilities are operating with minimal staff, discharging stable patients and referring new cases to private clinics. Patients have expressed frustration and fear, with some delaying critical treatments and others turning to alternative care due to cost and access constraints.

The Federal Government maintains that ₦11.995 billion has been approved for arrears and allowances, with Finance Minister Wale Edun confirming prompt action. Health Minister Dr. Iziaq Salako reiterated the administration’s commitment to resolving the dispute, but Suleiman argued that the Health Ministry must take full ownership of the negotiations rather than deferring to financial authorities.

NARD has vowed not to resume work until all 19 demands are met, including provisions for mental health support and comprehensive salary reviews. As the strike deepens, the crisis threatens to overwhelm Nigeria’s already strained healthcare system, highlighting the urgent need for structural reforms beyond temporary financial interventions.