Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have given Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the FCT, a two-week deadline to address their demands, warning of a potential strike that could disrupt healthcare services in the nation’s capital.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, George Ebong, president of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) FCT chapter, expressed dissatisfaction with the state of affairs.
While acknowledging the minister’s efforts in revamping abandoned infrastructure in the FCT, Ebong lamented that resident doctors have been neglected.
“We want the minister to solve the problems so doctors can practice to the best of their ability,” Ebong said.
The ARD president outlined several pressing issues, including:
Clearing six months of unpaid salary arrears for doctors employed in 2023.
Immediate payment of the 2024 Medical Residency Training Fund.
Reducing the bonding policy for doctors from six years to two years.
Implementing skipping allowances and issuing skipping letters to members employed in 2023.
Paying the 2024 accoutrements allowance and the 13-month hazard allowance arrears.
Converting ARD FCT members to consultants and expediting the recruitment of healthcare workers to address manpower shortages in FCT hospitals.
The association initially issued a 21-day ultimatum during its annual general meeting last week, leaving 14 days for the minister to act before the proposed industrial action.
Ebong warned of the dire consequences of failing to meet the doctors’ demands, describing the potential strike as “the deadliest shutdown that may lead to loss of lives.”
“It is important that the minister listens and acts on demand without delays,” he said, urging swift action to avoid a crisis in the healthcare sector.
A strike by resident doctors could have severe implications for healthcare delivery in Abuja, which serves as the nation’s capital and a hub for medical services.
The ongoing shortage of healthcare workers and unresolved issues affecting doctors’ welfare have already strained the system, raising concerns about the capacity to manage emergencies and routine medical care.
As of now, the FCT administration has yet to respond publicly to the ultimatum.
The minister’s handling of the situation will be closely watched, as stakeholders hope for a resolution to avert a healthcare crisis.
The doctors have called on the FCT minister to prioritize their demands, emphasizing that their ability to provide optimal care depends on the government’s commitment to their welfare.