The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) says payment of long-awaited salary arrears arising from the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) has begun for its members across the country.

In a notice issued by the association’s Publicity and Social Secretary, Abdulmajid Ibrahim, NARD confirmed that the disbursement process is already underway, with some members reportedly receiving payments.

According to the association, the arrears cover outstanding entitlements ranging from one to six months for affected doctors under the 25/35 CONMESS review structure.

“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.

Ibrahim urged members who are yet to receive payment to remain patient, noting that the process is ongoing and will be completed in phases.

He also disclosed that payments for the August component are experiencing minor administrative delays, which could extend disbursement timelines by one to two weeks.

“Payments for August are currently facing a few challenges that are being addressed,” he said, adding that the delay would be temporary.

The CONMESS framework determines salary adjustments for medical and dental practitioners in Nigeria’s public health sector and has long been a source of dispute between health workers and government authorities.

In the past, delays in implementing the structure and paying arrears have triggered strikes by NARD, disrupting services in federal and state hospitals.

Resident doctors continue to raise concerns over welfare conditions, including delayed salaries, heavy workloads, and increasing emigration of medical personnel, which has further strained Nigeria’s healthcare system.

The latest payment is being viewed as a positive step toward addressing longstanding welfare issues and reducing the risk of industrial unrest in the sector.

Ibrahim encouraged members facing unresolved issues after the payment cycle to report through their centre leadership for resolution, reaffirming the association’s commitment to members’ welfare.