Lagos-Abuja highway traffic wasn’t the only thing slowing down in the capital this morning. Hospitals across Abuja quieted as resident doctors declared an indefinite strike, citing a list of urgent demands they say have been ignored for too long.
The strike, which went into effect Monday, stems from what the doctors describe as “unresolved issues” that have persisted despite earlier warnings.
According to the Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory, the failure to act has left medical workers stretched thin—and patients paying the price.
What the Doctors Want: The 12 Key Issues
In a communiqué released by ARD-FCTA, the doctors listed a dozen issues that remain unaddressed by the FCT administration:
1. Non-payment of salary arrears owed to doctors employed since 2023
2. Failure to recruit new doctors, leaving hospitals understaffed
3. Faulty medical equipment that compromise care
4. Poor working conditions across multiple hospital departments
5. Unpaid entitlements and allowances
6. Unexplained deductions in salaries
7. Effects of staff shortages including overwork and mental stress
8. Delays in payment of certain welfare benefits
9. Ineffective administrative response to earlier warnings
10. Inadequate safety and support for frontline medical staff
11. Lack of regular medical training and development opportunities
12. Uncertainty about career progression and recognition of qualifications
What Led Here
Earlier last week, resident doctors in FCT undertook a seven-day warning strike, giving government a chance to meet their demands.
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When those demands were not met, negotiations stalled, and the doctors voted to escalate to an indefinite strike. The leaders say this was a last resort.
They say many hospitals are now facing huge pressure: fewer staff, delayed treatments, and frustrated patients. ARD-FCTA President Dr. George Ebong highlighted deaths and serious health incidents as symptoms of the system’s strain.
What It Means For Abuja Residents
* Patients are likely to face long delays, especially in public hospitals and emergency departments.
* Critical cases requiring resident doctor support could suffer.
* Those who cannot afford private care may be especially affected, worsening health inequalities.
What Government Must Do Now
The striking doctors are demanding immediate action. They want:
* Payment of all salary arrears going back to 2023
* New recruits to fill vacant positions
* Proper, functional equipment and safer working conditions
* Clear timelines for resolving all the listed issues
Looking Ahead
The strike will continue until the FCT administration shows concrete commitment. Many Nigerians are watching closely—hoping not only for words, but for action.
