Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment

The Federal Government has commenced the payment of long-awaited doctors’ salary arrears in Nigeria, offering relief to members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) after months of delays tied to the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) review.

The association confirmed the development in an official communication signed by its Publicity and Social Secretary, Abdulmajid Ibrahim, noting that disbursement is already underway across various institutions.

According to NARD, the salary arrears payment covers between one and six months for affected doctors, with many members already confirming receipt. The association described the development as a significant step toward resolving lingering welfare concerns in Nigeria’s health sector.

“The leadership of NARD is pleased to inform all members that payment of the outstanding 25/35 CONMESS review arrears has commenced,” the statement read, highlighting progress on the implementation of the revised salary structure.

READ ALSO:

• OAU Students Begin 72-Hour Lecture Boycott Over Transport Crisis
• Ghanaian Footballer Dominic Frimpong Shot Dead in Berekum Chelsea Bus Attack
• Man Allegedly Kills Two Sisters, Five-Year-Old Daughter in Ondo

Despite the progress, NARD disclosed that the August component of the arrears is currently experiencing minor administrative delays. The association explained that the issue is being addressed and that payments for that period may take an additional one to two weeks to be completed.

Doctors who are yet to receive their payments have been urged to remain patient, as the Federal Government continues the phased disbursement nationwide.

The CONMESS review, which determines salary scales and allowances for medical and dental practitioners in public hospitals, has long been a source of tension between doctors and the government. Delays in implementing the structure and settling arrears have, in the past, triggered industrial actions by NARD, disrupting healthcare services across the country.

Resident doctors—who form a critical part of Nigeria’s tertiary healthcare system—have repeatedly raised concerns over poor welfare, unpaid salaries, and challenging working conditions. These issues have contributed significantly to the rising brain drain in Nigeria’s health sector, with many professionals relocating abroad in search of better opportunities.

Industry observers note that the loss of medical personnel has worsened Nigeria’s already strained doctor-to-patient ratio, placing additional pressure on healthcare facilities nationwide.

The commencement of the payment of doctors’ arrears is therefore seen as a strategic move by the Federal Government to stabilise the sector, improve morale among healthcare workers, and avert potential industrial unrest.

NARD further advised members who experience any discrepancies after the disbursement process to channel complaints through their respective institutions for prompt resolution.

Reaffirming its commitment, the association commended members for their patience and resilience, assuring them that efforts to improve welfare conditions will continue.

Relief for Nigerian Doctors as FG Begins CONMESS Arrears Payment