The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors said its members could no longer cope with the government’s failure to settle outstanding salary arrears and to release funds for the 2025 residency training program. The doctors also complained of worsening working conditions and lack of basic facilities in hospitals.

Patients were left stranded in several government hospitals, with many forced to seek care in private clinics. Families of those admitted expressed worry as treatments and surgeries were abruptly suspended.

Union leaders vowed not to return to work until their demands were met, insisting that the strike was the only language the authorities seemed to understand. The Federal Ministry of Health has appealed for calm and assured that discussions are ongoing to resolve the crisis.