Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory Administration, under the Association of Resident Doctors, commenced a three-day warning strike on Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
The strike was initiated over unpaid salaries, allowances, and other unfulfilled demands.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, ARD FCTA President, Dr. George Ebong, explained that the strike followed the expiration of a three-week ultimatum given to the government. “We issued a 21-day ultimatum to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, on December 23, 2024. Unfortunately, nothing significant has been done to address our concerns,” he said.
The strike has affected services in major government hospitals in Abuja, including Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, and Nyanya General Hospitals.
Dr. Ebong revealed that despite dialogues and promises from the government, key issues remain unresolved. “The government pleaded for two more weeks after our ultimatum, but even the minimum expectations, like the payment of six months of unpaid arrears, have not been met,” he stated.
Doctors expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises, particularly regarding their accoutrements allowance. “This allowance, meant for the tools we use daily, has been delayed indefinitely. Management assured us it would be paid, but nothing has been done,” Dr. Ebong noted.
He also highlighted long-standing promotion issues. “Many doctors passed promotion exams 2-5 years ago and have taken on new responsibilities, but they are still paid for their old positions. Consultants are treated as senior registrars, without financial or formal recognition. It’s a disrespect to our dedication and hard work,” he lamented.
Dr. Ebong stressed the risks doctors face daily, including exposure to deadly diseases like COVID-19 and Lassa fever. “Since 2021, there has been an increase in our hazard allowance, but here in the FCT, we are still owed 13 months of arrears,” he said.
The doctors warned that if their demands remain unmet after the three-day warning strike, they might proceed with an indefinite strike. “We don’t want a complete shutdown of hospitals in Abuja, but if nothing is done, we will have no choice,” Dr. Ebong declared.
The doctors are urging the FCT Minister to prioritize their welfare alongside infrastructural development. “Just as the roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should also be considered,” he emphasized.
