The association of Resident Doctors, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (ARD AKTH), has formally announced its decision to join the nationwide strike declared by the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD). According to Dr. Bello Aminu Bello, President of ARD AKTH, the strike, known as the Total and Indefinite Consolidated Strike (TICS 2.0), will commence at midnight on Monday, January 12, 2026.
Dr. Bello explained that the decision was reached after “extensive deliberations and in strict alignment with the directive of NARD.” He emphasized that the strike was not taken lightly but was necessitated by “prolonged engagement, repeated assurances, and persistent failure by relevant authorities to address critical welfare, training, and remuneration concerns affecting resident doctors and the healthcare system.”
Officer on Duty
In outlining the doctors’ demands, Dr. Bello stressed that they remain “clear, legitimate, and long overdue.” Among the key issues highlighted were the immediate reinstatement of the FTH Lokoja Five, payment of all outstanding promotion and salary arrears, and the full implementation
officer on Duty
In outlining the doctors’ demands, Dr. Bello stressed that they remain “clear, legitimate, and long overdue.” Among the key issues highlighted were the immediate reinstatement of the FTH Lokoja Five, payment of all outstanding promotion and salary arrears, and the full implementation of the approved professional allowance table with arrears captured in the 2026 Federal Budget.
The ARD AKTH president further noted that the association is calling for “official clarification by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to Chief Executives on skipping and entry-level placement issues.” He added that the re-introduction and full implementation of the Specialist Allowance is also a priority for resident doctors.
Dr. Bello also drew attention to the plight of House Officers, stating that “the resolution of salary delays and arrears, with issuance of a clear pay advisory, is urgently needed.” He explained that the association is equally demanding the re-categorization of membership certificates and issuance of certificates post Part I examinations by the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (NPMCN).
On working conditions, Dr. Bello revealed that ARD AKTH is insisting on “the immediate commencement of locum practice and work-hours regulation committees.” He added that the resumption and timely conclusion of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) process is critical to restoring confidence in the system.
Highlighting the implications of the unresolved issues, Dr. Bello warned that “the continued neglect of these matters poses serious risks to healthcare delivery, workforce morale, and patient safety.” He stressed that resident doctors cannot continue to function optimally in an environment of uncertainty and unfulfilled commitments.
Despite the strike declaration, Dr. Bello assured that ARD AKTH remains open to dialogue. “We are open to genuine, concrete, and time-bound negotiations, but until meaningful progress is achieved, we stand in full solidarity with NARD and resident doctors nationwide,” he stated.
The announcement shows a major disruption in healthcare services in Kano and across Nigeria, as resident doctors form the backbone of medical care in teaching hospitals. The government is now under mounting pressure to respond to the doctors’