Relief and cautious optimism have begun to spread across Nigeria’s medical community as the long-awaited payment of arrears arising from the review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) has officially commenced for members of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors.
The development, which many doctors have described as a significant step toward restoring trust between healthcare professionals and the government, was confirmed in a statement issued by the association’s Publicity and Social Secretary, Dr Abdulmajid Ibrahim. In a letter addressed to members and sighted by our correspondent, Ibrahim disclosed that the arrears—covering a period ranging from one to six months for different categories of doctors—were already being disbursed.
“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 in part, signaling what many see as a long-overdue response to persistent demands by resident doctors across the country.
For months, the issue of unpaid arrears had been a source of tension within the healthcare sector, with doctors repeatedly expressing frustration over delays in the implementation of the reviewed salary structure. The CONMESS adjustment, designed to improve the welfare and remuneration of medical professionals, had remained only partially implemented, leading to agitation and, at times, threats of industrial action.
The confirmation of payments has, however, brought a measure of relief. Several resident doctors across federal and state-owned health institutions have reportedly acknowledged receipt of the funds, with many describing the development as both encouraging and necessary.
A resident doctor at a federal teaching hospital in the South-West, who spoke anonymously, noted that the payment would go a long way in alleviating the financial strain many doctors have endured. “It has not been easy. For months, we’ve continued to work under pressure without receiving what was due to us. This payment is a welcome development,” he said.
Another doctor in the North-Central region echoed similar sentiments, stating that while the arrears payment was commendable, there was still a need for consistency and full implementation of agreed salary structures. “We appreciate this step, but we hope it becomes a standard practice and not something we have to constantly fight for,” she added.
The leadership of NARD also used the opportunity to commend members for their patience and resilience throughout the period of uncertainty. The association acknowledged the sacrifices made by resident doctors, many of whom continue to work long hours under challenging conditions in Nigeria’s overstretched healthcare system.
Observers within the sector say the payment of the arrears could help ease tensions and improve morale among doctors, many of whom have considered leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad—a trend often referred to as “brain drain.” Improved welfare, they argue, is critical to retaining skilled professionals and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare delivery system.
However, stakeholders have also cautioned that while the disbursement is a positive development, it should not be seen as an end in itself. They stress the importance of addressing broader systemic issues, including poor working conditions, inadequate infrastructure, and delays in salary payments, which continue to affect the efficiency of the health sector.
Health policy analysts have long maintained that timely remuneration and proper implementation of salary structures are essential not only for the welfare of doctors but also for ensuring quality patient care. When healthcare workers are adequately motivated, they are better positioned to deliver optimal services, ultimately benefiting the wider population.
As the payments continue to roll out, many resident doctors remain watchful, hopeful that this marks the beginning of a more responsive approach to their welfare concerns. For now, the commencement of the CONMESS arrears payment stands as a notable milestone, one that brings temporary relief and renewed expectations for lasting reforms within Nigeria’s healthcare system
