Abuja Doctors Call Off Warning Strike After Nyesom Wike's Swift Intervention: Key Resolutions and Impact on Healthcare

 In a significant development for healthcare in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) has called off their three-day warning strike following a prompt intervention by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.This resolution marks a pivotal moment in addressing the pressing issues faced by medical professionals in Abuja.



Background of the Strike

On January 22, 2025, the ARD initiated a three-day warning strike to highlight critical concerns, including:

  • Unpaid Salary Arrears: Accumulated six-month salary arrears owed to doctors and other healthcare workers.

  • Accoutrement Allowance: Delayed payments of allowances essential for medical practitioners.

  • Medical Residency Training Funds: Outstanding funds for medical residency programs.

  • Manpower Shortage: Urgent need for the recruitment of additional doctors and allied health workers to alleviate staffing shortages.

The strike led to the temporary closure of FCTA-owned hospitals, disrupting healthcare services across Abuja.

Minister Wike's Intervention

Minister Nyesom Wike's intervention was instrumental in resolving the strike. His actions included:

  • Payment of Salary Arrears: Immediate disbursement of six months' salary arrears to affected medical personnel.

  • Accoutrement Allowance: Approval and prompt payment of the owed allowances.

  • Medical Residency Training Funds: Release of the 2024 Medical Residency Training Funds.

  • Recruitment Approval: Authorization for the employment of additional doctors and allied health workers to address manpower shortages.

  • Locum Doctors' Payment: Immediate payment to locum doctors and other health workers with outstanding dues.

These measures were communicated by Dr. George Ebong, President of the ARD, who expressed gratitude for Minister Wike's swift and decisive actions.He emphasized that these interventions have significantly improved the working conditions of medical professionals in the FCT.








Resumption of Services

Following the resolution, Dr. Ebong announced that all resident doctors are expected to resume their duties by 8:00 AM on Saturday, January 25, 2025.He also urged the Minister to implement mechanisms to prevent future occurrences of such issues, ensuring the sustainability of healthcare services in the FCT.

Implications for Healthcare in Abuja

This development underscores the critical need for timely and effective communication between healthcare professionals and government officials. Minister Wike's prompt response has not only averted a prolonged strike but also highlighted the importance of addressing the concerns of medical personnel to maintain the integrity of healthcare services.

The resolution of this strike is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the ARD and the FCTA, setting a precedent for future engagements aimed at improving the healthcare system in Abuja.

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