The Federal Government has commenced the payment of long-awaited arrears owed to doctors following the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), bringing relief to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD).
This was confirmed by NARD’s Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim, in a letter addressed to members. He noted that the arrears, covering between one and six months for some doctors, are already being disbursed, with many beneficiaries confirming receipt.
“The leadership of NARD… is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears… has commenced,” the statement said.
While the development has been widely welcomed, Ibrahim reassured members who are yet to receive payment that the process is ongoing and will be completed in due course, urging patience among affected doctors.
He, however, disclosed that the August component of the arrears is currently facing minor administrative challenges, which may result in slight delays.
“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.
CONMESS Review and Resident Doctors’ Welfare Concerns
The CONMESS review, which determines salary adjustments for medical and dental officers in Nigeria’s public health sector, has long been a point of contention between doctors and the government. Delays in implementing the revised structure and settling arrears have previously led to industrial actions by NARD, disrupting healthcare delivery across federal and state-owned hospitals.
Resident doctors (widely regarded as the backbone of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system) have consistently raised concerns over welfare issues. These include unpaid salaries, poor working conditions, and the increasing migration of healthcare professionals in search of better opportunities abroad.
Industry estimates indicate that Nigeria has lost thousands of doctors to migration in recent years, worsening the already strained doctor-to-patient ratio and placing additional pressure on the country’s fragile healthcare system.
The commencement of arrears payments is seen as a positive step toward addressing these longstanding concerns and reducing the likelihood of labour unrest in the sector.
Ibrahim further advised members experiencing unresolved payment issues after the disbursement period to report 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 said.
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