The National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has explained that it suspended its nationwide strike as a show of goodwill, aimed at easing the suffering of Nigerians seeking healthcare in public hospitals.

In a statement made available to The Guardian, NARD President, Dr. Tope Osundara, confirmed that members have been directed to resume work today, following an emergency meeting of the association’s National Executive Council (NEC) held on Friday.

“Some of our demands have been met. The government has promised to look into the others.”

“We did this as a sign of goodwill and to assist Nigerians who are seeking healthcare in our various health facilities,” Osundara said.

The strike, which disrupted operations across several hospitals, was called to press for improved welfare, payment of salary arrears, and better working conditions for resident doctors.

Osundara acknowledged that while some progress had been made, several issues remain unresolved. These include unpaid salary arrears, the downgrade of the membership certificate issued by the West African Postgraduate Medical College, persistent manpower shortages in hospitals, and the delayed release of a corrected remuneration circular by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC).

He added that the association would assess the government’s response over the next two weeks.

“In two weeks, we will review government response to other demands,” he said.