Payment of long-awaited arrears arising from the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure review has commenced for members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
The NARD’s Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim, confirmed this in a letter to all members, stating that the arrears, covering between one and six months for some members, were already being disbursed.
Many doctors have also confirmed receipt of the arrears. The statement from NARD indicated that the leadership is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears has commenced.
Dr Ibrahim reassured members yet to be credited that payments would be completed in due course, urging patience. He disclosed that the August component of the arrears is encountering minor administrative challenges, which could delay payments by up to two weeks.
“Payments for August are currently facing a few challenges that are being addressed… the August arrears may be delayed by about a week or two,” he added.
The CONMESS review adjusts salary scales for medical and dental officers in Nigeria’s public sector and has been a recurring issue.
Resident doctors, who form a critical part of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system, have repeatedly raised concerns over welfare issues. These include unpaid salaries, hazardous working conditions, and brain drain driven by better remuneration abroad.
Industry estimates suggest Nigeria has lost thousands of doctors to migration in recent years. This has worsened doctor-to-patient ratios and strained the nation's health system.
The current development signals progress in the government's efforts to address welfare concerns and avert potential labour unrest.
Dr Ibrahim stated that members with unresolved payment issues after the disbursement period should channel complaints through their respective centre leadership for prompt resolution.
“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,” he concluded.
