By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors has declared an indefinite nationwide strike beginning at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, citing what it described as the Federal Government’s plan to halt the implementation of the revised Professional Allowance Table, a key component of agreements reached after its 2025 industrial action.

The decision, which threatens to disrupt healthcare services across public hospitals in Nigeria, was reached at the end of the association’s virtual Extraordinary National Executive Council meeting held on Saturday.

Speaking on the outcome of the meeting, NARD National President, Dr Shuaibu Ibrahim, described the development as “unfortunate,” blaming the Federal Government of Nigeria for pushing doctors toward another industrial action.

“The National Executive Council was informed about the Federal Government’s decision to remove the Professional Allowance Table, a development deemed unfortunate,” he said.

“Following extensive deliberations, the NEC resolved to embark on a total industrial and comprehensive strike beginning at 12:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.”

The crisis stems from the implementation of a revised Professional Allowance Table negotiated between NARD and the Federal Government following a prolonged strike in 2025. The agreement included improved remuneration packages for resident doctors, covering call duty allowances, shift allowances, rural posting incentives, and non-clinical duty payments.

Although implementation was initially scheduled to commence in January 2026, delays pushed the rollout to February. However, NARD alleged that the government is now planning to discontinue the process by April, a move the association says undermines trust and violates prior agreements.

Healthcare analysts note that disputes over allowances and welfare have been a recurring issue in Nigeria’s health sector, contributing to frequent strikes by medical unions, including the Nigerian Medical Association. These disruptions often reduce access to healthcare services, particularly in public hospitals that cater to the majority of Nigerians.

Outlining the association’s demands, Ibrahim called for the immediate reversal of the government’s decision and settlement of all outstanding entitlements.

“We demand the reversal of the decision to cease the implementation of the PAT starting in April 2026,” he said.

“There must be immediate payment of promotion arrears and salary arrears in affected centres, as well as the prompt conclusion of the process of paying the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund.”

“We also insist on the immediate processing and payment of the outstanding 19 months’ arrears of the Professional Allowance.”

He further urged members of the association nationwide to remain united.

“The NARD leadership calls on its members to unite in the fight against this injustice and to pursue it to a logical conclusion,” Ibrahim added.

The planned strike raises concerns about the potential impact on Nigeria’s already strained health system. Resident doctors form the backbone of service delivery in tertiary hospitals, handling a large proportion of patient care.

According to health sector data, Nigeria faces a severe shortage of medical personnel, with doctor-to-patient ratios far below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended standard of one doctor to 600 patients. Estimates suggest Nigeria’s ratio is closer to one doctor per 5,000 patients, particularly in underserved areas.

An indefinite strike could lead to the shutdown of outpatient services, delays in surgeries, and increased pressure on private healthcare facilities, raising concerns among patients and health advocates.

Stakeholders have called for urgent intervention to avert another disruption in the health sector, warning that repeated strikes could worsen the ongoing brain drain among Nigerian doctors seeking better working conditions abroad.

As the strike deadline approaches, attention is now on the Federal Government to engage with NARD and resolve the dispute, with millions of Nigerians potentially affected if negotiations fail.

The Kano State Government has strongly dismissed claims that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) out of fear of losing his chances for a second-term ticket under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), describing the allegation as false and misleading.

In a press statement issued on April 3, 2026, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, responded to remarks attributed to the immediate past Commissioner for Investment, Commerce and Industry, Shehu Wada Sagagi. Sagagi had reportedly alleged that the governor’s political realignment was motivated by concerns over his political future within the NNPP.

The state government, however, rejected the claim outright, stating that it was “baseless” and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public.

According to the statement, Governor Yusuf’s decision to realign politically was made in the broader interest of peace, unity, and sustainable development in Kano State. The government described the move as strategic and well thought out, aimed at strengthening collaboration and ensuring that the benefits of governance are extended to all residents without discrimination.

“The insinuation that the Governor acted out of fear is not only misleading but disregards his strong political standing and wide acceptance among the people,” the statement said.

The government further emphasized that Governor Yusuf remains committed to his “Kano First” agenda, which focuses on improving infrastructure, boosting economic growth, and enhancing social stability across the state.

Waiya urged the public to disregard Sagagi’s claims, insisting they do not reflect the true situation. He reiterated the administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and continued progress.

Despite the controversy, the Kano State Government maintained that it would not be distracted by what it described as unfounded allegations, but would remain focused on delivering its mandate to the people.

The Non-Formal Development for Health and Education Initiative has launched a training program for War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) marshals, focusing on the dangers of drug abuse among students in secondary and tertiary institutions.

Dr. Auwalu Halilu, the technical adviser of the NGO, explained during the workshop that the initiative is designed to equip WADA marshals with the knowledge and tools to educate young people about the risks of drug abuse. “We are here to tell the children of the ills of drug abuse. It is better to catch them young, using storytelling and experience sharing to help them understand the dangers,” he said.

The workshop emphasized the importance of early intervention, highlighting how drug abuse can derail students’ education and future prospects. Participants were trained to use interactive methods to showcase the dangers of drug trafficking and substance misuse.

State Commandant of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Dahiru Lawan Yahaya, praised the initiative, noting that WADA War Against Drug Abuse was established to mobilize communities against the growing menace. “We are elated by this workshop because it strengthens our collective fight against drug abuse,” he remarked.

Executive Chairman of the Kano State Universal Basic Education Board, Yusuf Kabir Yusuf, also commended the program, stressing its relevance to primary and junior secondary education. “We are protecting the integrity and dignity of our students. If children are thrown into drug abuse, they cannot study, they cannot progress. That is why we are involving parents and village heads in this fight,” he said.

The training is a collaborative approach, bringing together educators, law enforcement, and community leaders to safeguard students from the destructive impact of drugs. Organizers emphasized that awareness and prevention remain the most effective strategies in curbing drug abuse among young people.