AWC MDA Desk
The Federal Government has clarified the ongoing standoff with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), attributing the impasse to structural and policy constraints rather than neglect, while underscoring a ₦90 billion annual increase in health workers’ allowances as proof of its commitment to industrial harmony in the health sector.
The explanation was given on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, by the Honourable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, during an interview on the AIT Kaakaki programme, where he outlined government efforts to address resident doctors’ concerns and curb recurring strikes.
Dr. Salako stressed that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare places high priority on uninterrupted healthcare delivery, but must balance wage demands with competing national obligations such as education, security and infrastructure, within the limits of available revenue.
He revealed that in November 2025, the Tinubu administration approved an upward review of professional allowances for health workers, adding nearly ₦90 billion annually to government expenditure. The review covers call duty, shift duty, non-clinical duty and rural posting allowances, and was achieved through joint negotiations involving all health professional groups.
According to the Minister, previous negotiations were often fragmented, with different health worker unions engaging the government separately, leading to conflicting agreements on pay parity and frequent industrial disputes. To address this, the Ministry introduced a collective bargaining model, bringing doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists and other professionals to the negotiating table together.
On the specific demands of resident doctors, Dr. Salako noted that NARD’s requests have reduced from 19 to nine, indicating progress in discussions. He explained that some outstanding demands are restricted by existing civil service rules and approved schemes of service.
Addressing the demand for a specialist allowance, the Minister clarified that resident doctors are specialists-in-training, and that current regulations reserve specialist allowances for consultants. He added that the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission advised against extending the allowance to residents, warning it could trigger similar claims from other health workers in training.
Dr. Salako also dismissed allegations of government inaction on certification issues, explaining that the National Postgraduate Medical College does not issue certificates after Part I examinations, a policy beyond the Ministry’s authority to alter.
On the disengagement of five resident doctors in Lokoja, the Minister said the cases followed civil service disciplinary procedures. He disclosed that a ministerial review committee has recommended the reinstatement of two doctors, reprimand for two others, and a fresh disciplinary hearing for one, in line with due process.
While acknowledging public frustration over repeated strikes, Dr. Salako noted that industrial actions by doctors are not unique to Nigeria, citing similar disputes in the United Kingdom and parts of Europe.
He assured Nigerians that the Federal Government, working with the Federal Ministry of Labour and other stakeholders, remains committed to sustained dialogue to stabilise the health sector, ensure industrial peace and prevent future disruptions to healthcare services.
The statement was signed by Alaba Balogun, Director of Information and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
