The payment of outstanding CONMESS review arrears to resident doctors has commenced, in a move aimed at easing tensions and preventing fresh industrial action in Nigeria’s health sector.
The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) confirmed the development through its Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr. Abdulmajid Ibrahim. He informed members that disbursement is underway, with several doctors already receiving payments covering arrears ranging from one to six months.
“The leadership of NARD is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears has commenced,” the notice stated.
Dr. Ibrahim urged members yet to receive payment to remain calm, noting that the process is ongoing and will be completed in due course.
He, however, acknowledged administrative bottlenecks affecting the August component of the arrears. “Payments for August are currently facing a few challenges that are being addressed. As a result, the August arrears may be delayed by about one to two weeks,” he said.
The CONMESS review has long been a contentious issue between doctors and the government, with previous delays triggering nationwide strikes that disrupted healthcare delivery in public hospitals.
Resident doctors have consistently raised concerns about welfare and delayed entitlements—factors that have contributed to the migration of medical professionals abroad and intensified workforce shortages.
The current payments are being viewed as a strategic intervention to address welfare grievances, stabilise the workforce, and avert disruptions in the healthcare system. NARD advised members with unresolved payment issues after the disbursement window to channel complaints through their respective centre leadership.
“We sincerely appreciate your patience, resilience, and continued trust. Be assured that we remain steadfast and committed to the welfare and well-being of all NARD members,” Ibrahim added.
