The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has suspended the planned resumption of its proposed industrial action scheduled to begin today.
The suspension of the action followed what NARD described as firm commitments from key stakeholders and direct intervention by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, acting on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
It the decision was taken at a virtual Emergency National Executive Council (E-NEC) meeting held on January 11, 2026, during which the association reviewed the status of its demands and assessed progress made through sustained engagement with relevant authorities.
Secretary-General of NARD, Dr. Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the suspension as “strategic and conditional,” stressing it was intended to allow time for an objective assessment of tangible progress at the association’s next NEC meeting, scheduled for January 25, 2026.
In a statement, Ibrahim said: “Following firm commitments from critical stakeholders across government and based on direct presidential intervention led by the Vice President, the NEC unanimously resolved to suspend the resumption of TICS 2.0. This decision is not a retreat from our demands, but a deliberate window to verify implementation and measurable outcomes.”
According to him, the meeting extensively reviewed all outstanding issues affecting resident doctors, noting that progress had been recorded on several fronts.
On the lingering crisis at the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Lokoja, Ibrahim said the issue has been resolved.
“
Regarding the outstanding 25 and 35 per cent CONMESS arrears, the NARD scribe disclosed that verified lists had already been forwarded to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has formally written to the Ministry of Finance, with attention to IPPIS, to facilitate payment
He added that similar progress had been made regarding the outstanding accoutrement allowance.
On the issue of promotion and salary arrears, Ibrahim noted that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare had transmitted relevant lists to the Ministry of Finance and the Budget Office.
“Importantly, the Honourable Minister of State for Finance has acknowledged receipt, and we are now engaging to ensure a clear and expedited payment plan,” he said.
The Secretary-General said clarification had been issued by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, reaffirming CONMESS 3 as the recognised entry level.
