Posted on: Mon 08-09-2025

BREAKING: Abuja Hospitals in Crisis as Resident Doctors Launch 7-Day Strike Over Government Neglect — Patients Left Stranded

Resident doctors in Nigeria’s capital city have declared a seven-day warning strike, igniting widespread concern across Abuja’s healthcare system. The action, led by the Association of Resident Doctors, FCT chapter (ARD-FCT), is a direct response to what they describe as “systemic failure” and years of government neglect.

Why Are Abuja Doctors on Strike?

In a communique signed by ARD-FCT President Dr. George Ebong and other executives, the doctors accused the authorities of:

• Running the health system aground
• Forcing medical professionals to work under inhumane conditions
• Ignoring critical issues like unpaid salaries, delayed promotions, and poor infrastructure

Dr. Ebong stated, “Doctors in the FCT are under immense pressure, many of us are forced to cover multiple departments daily. The government’s neglect is not only dangerous to health workers but puts patients at risk. This health system is at the brink of collapse.”

Key Issues Behind the Strike

• Acute manpower shortages
• Broken medical equipment
• Unpaid allowances and salaries
• Delayed promotions and underpayment of promoted staff
• Poor working conditions for healthcare professionals

The doctors have given the FCT administration one week to initiate genuine reforms or face further escalation.

Government Response

Minister of State for Health, Dr. Isaq Salako, acknowledged the crisis but attempted to downplay its severity. Speaking on national television, he admitted that 40% of the 2025 residency training allowance remains unpaid. While claiming that talks with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) are “making progress,” he could not guarantee resolution before the strike deadline.

Public hospitals across Abuja are now overwhelmed, with thousands of patients left stranded. Many are being forced to seek care in private clinics they cannot afford, as the strike exacerbates already dire conditions.

This development marks a critical moment in Nigeria’s healthcare landscape, highlighting the urgent need for reform and accountability. For updates and expert commentary, stay tuned to MedicalWorldNigeria.com.

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