Doctors in Abuja under the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), have begun a three-day warning strike.
The strike, which started on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, comes after months of unresolved grievances over unpaid salaries, allowances, and other issues affecting their welfare.
Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Dr. George Ebong, the President of ARD FCTA, noted that the decision to strike followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum issued last year to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
On December 23, 2024, the association had given a 21-day notice demanding urgent action to address their concerns.
“The three-day strike is being implemented across all government hospitals in Abuja, including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, Nyanya, and all other hospitals in Abuja.”
“We gave the government an ultimatum to meet our demands, and after that, we met with them and held several dialogues. They pleaded for two weeks, but after that elapsed, nothing has been done. Not even the minimum thing. We expected them to pay the six months of unpaid arrears to doctors.”
“Honestly, doctors have been abandoned. Just as the roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should be considered by the minister,” he said.
“If nothing is done, we will go on an indefinite strike. We want the Minister of FCT to solve this problem to prevent an indefinite shutdown of hospitals in Abuja,” he stated.
“This allowance, meant for the tools we use daily to serve Nigerians, has also been delayed indefinitely. Management assured us this money would be paid, but to date, nothing has been done. These broken promises make it harder for us to trust the system.”
“Imagine passing a promotion exam years ago, in our case, 2-5 years ago, taking on the responsibilities of your new role, but still being paid for your old position. This is our reality. Doctors who have earned the title of ‘consultant’ are still treated as senior registrars, with no formal recognition or financial benefits. It is a slap in the face to our hard work and commitment.”
“Since 2021, there has been an increase in our hazard allowance — an increase approved due to the high risks we face daily. From COVID-19 to Lassa fever, we work on the front lines, often at great personal risk. Yet, here in the FCT, we are still owed 13 months of arrears,” he emphasised.
