Nigeria: Public sector doctors' union holding nationwide strike as of Aug. 26

Public sector doctors affiliated with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) are holding a nationwide strike since 00:01 Aug. 26. Although the exact duration of the strike is unclear, it is likely to last through at least Sept. 1, as participants have indicated a seven-day strike period. The purpose of the labor action is to denounce the abduction of an associated doctor, who was kidnapped in December 2023. NARD stated that the strike will impact emergency care across Nigeria.

The strike will likely prompt disruptions to public hospital operations. Public healthcare institutions could limit their services to treating only emergency cases. Spillover disruptions are also possible at private clinics and hospitals due to increased demand as patients seek other treatment options. Participating doctors could stage protests near hospitals and clinics; authorities may deploy increased security near any such gatherings that materialize. Localized transport disruptions are possible around any protests that occur.