The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has urged the Federal Government to immediately conclude the long-delayed Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) as the union’s indefinite strike entered its 15th day on Saturday.

The doctors are also demanding a review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS), which they described as outdated and inadequate in the face of rising living costs.

In a statement posted on X on Saturday, NARD said doctors have waited too long for a fair and clearly defined agreement on their work conditions and remuneration.

“For long we’ve waited for a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), a simple, written promise that ensures fairness, clear work terms, and proper pay. But the government keeps delaying, while doctors face rising costs and crumbling morale,” the union said.
“We demand the immediate conclusion of the CBA and review of the outdated CONMESS salary structure.”

The ongoing industrial action, which began earlier this month, has disrupted services in 91 hospitals across the country, including federal teaching hospitals, specialist centres, and federal medical centres.

NARD reiterated that its 19-point demand list is vital for improving the welfare of doctors and safeguarding the health sector. Among the demands are the payment of arrears under CONMESS, the disbursement of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, prompt payment of specialist allowances, improved recognition of postgraduate qualifications, and better working conditions.

The union said these measures are essential to keep medical professionals in the system and maintain a functional healthcare delivery structure.

President Bola Tinubu had earlier directed the Ministry of Health to ensure immediate resolution of the strike, assuring that the government is working to address the doctors’ concerns.

However, NARD said the continued delay in signing the CBA and reviewing salaries has further dampened morale among resident doctors, many of whom are battling with economic hardship while providing critical healthcare services.

The union maintained that it remains open to dialogue but expects urgent government action to restore normalcy in the nation’s hospitals.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), has warned drug barons and trafficking networks to brace for an even tougher clampdown as he begins his second five-year tenure.

Marwa, who was reappointed by President Bola Tinubu on Friday, November 14, 2025, issued the warning while addressing jubilant NDLEA personnel who gathered at the agency’s headquarters in Abuja to celebrate the announcement. His reappointment was confirmed in a statement released on Saturday, November 15, 2025, by the NDLEA Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi.

Speaking to the crowd, Marwa vowed that the next phase of the agency’s operations would be relentlessly aggressive.
“This second tenure is going to be hell and bleak for them. Drugs shall not pass, in or out or within Nigeria,” he declared.

He expressed surprise at the warm reception, thanking the workforce for their dedication and acknowledging the recognition from President Tinubu.
“We thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for the special recognition of our collective efforts and the new mandate to continue the war against drug abuse and trafficking,” he said.

Marwa also appreciated the support of the Attorney General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, and several international partners who, he noted, have played vital roles in the agency’s achievements.

Issuing a stern warning to drug cartels, he urged traffickers and cannabis cultivators to abandon illicit trade:
“This is the right time for them to drop that criminal business and face something legitimate.”

He highlighted the NDLEA’s Alternative Development Unit, which provides legal livelihood options for offenders, but cautioned that anyone who persists will face severe consequences.
“You will be arrested, the drugs will be seized, and your assets will be confiscated. You will come out from jail to find nothing left,” he warned.

Marwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to drug-demand reduction and announced expanded rehabilitation initiatives. He said the NDLEA’s 30 rehabilitation centres will receive increased support, with seven new centres set for completion under the 2025 budget—ensuring every state has access to drug treatment facilities.

He also noted improvements in collaboration with the Ministries of Health and Education, including the recent approval of drug tests for students upon admission into tertiary institutions.
“With this, we can catch them young before addiction sets in,” he said.

Marwa concluded with prayers for the president, NDLEA supporters, and the agency’s personnel as he embarks on what he described as a more aggressive phase in Nigeria’s war against drugs.

Boko Haram terrorists on Friday night ambushed troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade during a routine patrol around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, killing four security operatives.

The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, confirmed the incident in a statement on Saturday, noting that the attack occurred as the troops were returning from a successful patrol around the fringes of Sambisa Forest.

“Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa LGA of Borno State, came under a sudden and heavy insurgents’ fire while returning from a successful patrol within the fringes of Sambisa Forests,” the statement said.

Anele explained that the patrol team, led by the Commander of the 25 Brigade, Brigadier General M. Uba, included soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). She said the team fought through the ambush with “superior firepower,” forcing the terrorists to retreat.

However, two soldiers and two CJTF operatives were killed in the attack.

While commending the troops for their gallantry, Anele said the Army high command commiserates with the families of the fallen personnel and praised their sacrifice.

She also dismissed reports circulating online alleging that the Brigade Commander had been abducted during the ambush.

“The Army Headquarters wishes to debunk the fake narrative… alleging the abduction of the Brigade Commander,” she said, urging the public to disregard the misinformation.

She added that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, saluted the bravery and resilience of the troops, describing their commitment as a reminder of the daily sacrifices made to keep Nigeria safe.

The incident comes barely a month after Boko Haram terrorists killed the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lt. Col. Aliyu Paiko, along with several soldiers, during an attack in the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government Area of Borno State.