Resident doctors in Osun State commenced an indefinite strike on Saturday, November 1, 2025, in compliance with the directive from their national body, NARD. The action follows the expiration of a 30-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government over unresolved welfare issues, unpaid allowances, and poor working conditions. The strike has disrupted medical services at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH), Osogbo, and other public health facilities across the state.
Introduction
The healthcare system in Nigeria faces renewed strain as resident doctors across the country, including those in Osun State, embark on an indefinite strike. The action, led by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), is in response to longstanding grievances over unpaid salaries, poor infrastructure, and stalled negotiations with the Federal Government. In Osun, the strike has already begun affecting patient care, with doctors withdrawing services from major hospitals.
Strike Details and Local Impact
UTH Osogbo Shutdown: Doctors at the University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, have stopped attending to patients, leaving wards and clinics understaffed The Punch.
Local Compliance: Dr. Phillip Ajibade, President of the Osun chapter of NARD, confirmed that the strike is total and indefinite, stating, “What NARD is demanding from the Federal Government equally affects us too as doctors” The Punch.
Nationwide Action: The strike was declared after a five-hour emergency meeting of NARD’s National Executive Council, citing unfulfilled promises and poor working conditions Leadership.
Key Demands from NARD
Immediate payment of 25–35% CONMESS arrears and the 2024 accoutrement allowance
Settlement of all outstanding financial entitlements
Reinstatement of dismissed resident doctors from Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja
Implementation of humane working-hours policy
Greater autonomy for hospital management to hire replacements
Enforcement of salary relativity and pension benefits for doctors Leadership
Government Response and Outlook
As of now, the Federal Government has not issued a formal response to the strike. NARD President Dr. Mohammad Suleiman has appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and prevent a collapse of the healthcare system. The strike is expected to paralyze services in government-owned hospitals nationwide, with patients already stranded in several states.
Sources:
The PunchPunch
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