Resident Doctors at UITH begin Five-Day warning strike over unpaid entitlements

The Association of Resident Doctors, University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (ARD-UITH), on Friday began a five-day warning strike as part of a nationwide push for improved conditions in Nigeria’s health sector.

Speaking to journalists in Ilorin, ARD-UITH President, Dr. Mariam Shiru, said the action aligns with the national body’s ongoing engagement with the Federal Government over long-standing issues affecting resident doctors.

She acknowledged the government’s previous efforts, including meetings and the setting up of a committee, but said progress has been slow.

“Out of seven months of outstanding arrears, two have been settled, although disbursements have been inconsistent across centres,” she explained. “This is not about new allowances but long-standing entitlements. While the government has indicated that funds are available, the implementation has been slow.”

Dr. Shiru stressed the need for urgent action to retain medical professionals and curb the country’s worsening brain drain.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) said many members are still awaiting payment of their 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, while five months of arrears tied to the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (25%/35%) remain unpaid.