Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory have commenced a seven-day warning strike due to unpaid allowances and poor working conditions.
The action was confirmed in a communiqué signed by the FCT chapter of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), led by its president, Dr George Ebong.
The doctors described the FCT health system as facing “longstanding systemic failure,” citing manpower shortages, non-functional equipment, and underpayment of staff. Dr Ebong said doctors were under immense pressure, often covering multiple departments, and warned that continued neglect could trigger a wider collapse of services. The association also highlighted delayed promotions and unpaid salaries, calling for government intervention to restore morale and efficiency in the health sector.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Health, Dr Isaq Salako, expressed confidence that talks with NARD would prevent a prolonged strike. Speaking on Channels Television, he said the main issue was the outstanding residency training allowance, with about 40% for 2025 still unpaid.
He said discussions were progressing and voiced hope that the matter would be resolved before the warning strike expires.
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