The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has announced the suspension of its warning strike, which commenced on September 12, 2025. This significant decision was reached during a virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on September 13, 2025, following substantial commitments from the federal government to address the doctors' long-standing demands.

The suspension of industrial action is effective from 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 14, 2025. This temporary halt is intended to provide the federal government with a crucial two-week window to fully implement the demands previously outlined by the association. According to a statement signed by NARD president, Dr. Osundara Tope; secretary-general, Dr. Odunbaku Kazeem Oluwasola; and publicity and social secretary, Dr. Amobi Omoha, the association emphasized that the move was motivated by the severe plight of Nigerians who are grappling with various health challenges amidst the current harsh economic conditions.

A critical factor influencing NARD's decision was the commencement of payment for the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF) to members who were previously owed, which NARD acknowledged as a positive signal of goodwill from the government. However, NARD issued a firm warning, stating that it would not hesitate to resume industrial action should the government fail to deliver on its promises within the agreed-upon timeframe.

In addition to national concerns, NARD also turned its attention to state-specific issues. The association urgently called upon the Oyo State government to resolve matters affecting doctors at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, within the 15-day ultimatum previously issued by the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) in the state. NARD threatened that a failure to comply would compel it to direct its members in Oyo State to embark on an indefinite solidarity strike.

Furthermore, NARD urged other state governments across Nigeria to swiftly address welfare concerns impacting resident doctors within their respective tertiary health institutions. The association clarified that members in state-owned hospitals are empowered to continue their ongoing industrial action until their governments demonstrate genuine commitment to meeting their demands.

Reaffirming its steadfast commitment to strengthening the nation's health sector, NARD pledged its continued cooperation with all levels of government to ensure the delivery of quality healthcare services for all Nigerians.