The Federal Government has commenced the long-awaited payment of salary arrears owed to resident doctors, raising hopes of easing tensions in Nigeria’s health sector.

The development was confirmed by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors through its Publicity Secretary, Abdulmajid Ibrahim, who disclosed that disbursements have already begun for affected members.

According to the association, the payments cover arrears arising from the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), with some doctors receiving between one and six months’ outstanding wages.

Ibrahim noted that while many members have confirmed receipt of payments, others may experience slight delays as the process continues nationwide.

He explained that the August component of the arrears is currently facing minor administrative challenges, which could delay payments by up to two weeks.

Despite the delays, the association reassured members that all outstanding payments would be settled, urging patience among those yet to be credited.

The CONMESS salary structure, which governs the remuneration of medical and dental officers in Nigeria’s public sector, has been a recurring source of disputes between doctors and the government.

Delays in implementing salary adjustments and clearing arrears have, in the past, triggered strikes by resident doctors, disrupting healthcare services across the country.

Resident doctors, who form a critical part of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system, have consistently raised concerns over welfare issues, including unpaid salaries, poor working conditions, and the growing wave of medical brain drain.

Health sector analysts say thousands of Nigerian doctors have migrated abroad in recent years in search of better pay and improved working environments, further straining the country’s already overstretched healthcare system.

The latest move by the government is seen as part of broader efforts to address these concerns and prevent potential industrial action within the sector.

Ibrahim added that members with unresolved payment issues after the disbursement process should report through their respective centres for resolution.

He reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the welfare of its members, expressing appreciation for their patience and resilience during the delay period.

The post FG Begins Payment of Doctors’ Salary Arrears After Months of Delay appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has called on the Federal Government to immediately conclude a long-pending Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) as their nationwide strike entered its 15th day on Saturday.

The union is also demanding a comprehensive review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), describing it as outdated and insufficient to meet modern doctors’ needs.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), NARD said:
“Doctors deserve fair treatment and timely remuneration. The government’s delays in finalizing the CBA and reviewing salaries have left doctors struggling with rising living costs and declining morale.”

Strike Disrupts Healthcare Delivery Nationwide

The strike, which began earlier this month, has affected 91 hospitals across Nigeria, including federal teaching hospitals, specialist institutions, and federal medical centres. Medical services have been severely disrupted, impacting patient care nationwide.

NARD’s 19-point demand list includes:

• Payment of arrears under the CONMESS salary structure
• Disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund
• Timely payment of specialist allowances
• Recognition of postgraduate qualifications
• Improved working conditions for doctors

The union says these measures are essential to sustain doctors and maintain a functional healthcare system.

Government Response and Ongoing Concerns

President Bola Tinubu has instructed the Ministry of Health to resolve the strike immediately, noting that the government is taking steps to address doctors’ demands. Despite this, NARD insists delays in finalizing the CBA and reviewing salaries continue to demoralize doctors, many of whom are struggling with rising costs while providing critical medical services.

The post Nigerian Doctors Strike Enters 15th Day, NARD Pushes for Salary Review appeared first on Housing TV Africa.