FCT Hospitals Paralyzed as Resident Doctors Begin Indefinite Strike

Healthcare services across Federal Capital Territory (FCT) hospitals were significantly disrupted on Monday, September 15, 2025, as resident doctors launched an indefinite strike, following unresolved grievances with the FCT health authorities.

The strike, officially declared by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), FCT chapter, was confirmed in a communiqué issued after an emergency general meeting held on September 14. The statement, signed by ARD-FCT President George Ebong and Secretary Agbor Affiong, cited long-standing issues the government had failed to address—even after a prior warning strike.

“After thorough deliberations, we resolved to embark on a total, indefinite strike beginning 8 a.m. on Monday,” the statement read. “This decision follows management’s continued inaction despite previous warnings and engagement.”

Major Complaints: Salaries, Staffing, and Poor Conditions

The doctors had previously staged a seven-day warning strike, highlighting a range of issues including:

Unpaid salaries, particularly for members employed since 2023

Unjustified deductions and inconsistent salary payments

Chronic understaffing, with no recruitment of new doctors since 2011

Poor working conditions, leading to burnout and mental health challenges

Delay in release of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF)

They also raised the alarm over preventable deaths attributed to excessive workloads and lack of support.

“Our members are under immense physical and emotional pressure,” ARD stated. “The situation is unsustainable and endangers both staff and patients.”

Hospitals Struggle, Patients Left Without Care

At several hospitals—including Kubwa, Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, and Bwari General Hospitals—routine medical services have come to a near halt.

In Kubwa General Hospital, outpatient clinics were deserted, operating theatres shut, and only diagnostic services like X-rays and scans were functioning. One insider, who requested anonymity, acknowledged the strain:

“Consultants and nurses are still on duty, but they’re stretched thin. The absence of resident doctors is deeply felt.”

At Bwari hospital, nurses were reportedly managing critical cases, but the lack of doctors created significant bottlenecks.

Multiple patients shared their distress with our reporter:

Hassan Abubakar, who visited for a scan, was unable to see a doctor:

“I assumed the strike had ended. Patients are suffering. They should think about us.”

Chuks Chinyere, a retiree living with hypertension, said:

“No doctor has attended to me. My blood pressure is climbing and I fear for my life.”

Mukailu Hammed, caring for his elderly mother, lamented:

“She needs consistent treatment for arthritis. We can’t afford private hospitals.”

These accounts underscore the real-life impact the strike is having on everyday Nigerians, particularly those without access to private care.

Doctors Outline Their Demands

In their statement, the doctors listed urgent demands, which they say must be addressed before any return to work:

Immediate payment of all salary arrears to members hired since 2023

Recruitment of new doctors, with time-bound commitments before the end of 2025

Payment of 2025 MRTF and settlement of arrears related to training support

Correction of salary irregularities, including stopping unauthorized deductions

Release of wage award arrears and the overdue 13-month hazard allowance

Clearing of debts owed to external residents for 2025

Upgrades and renovations of public hospitals under FCTA to meet global standards

“This strike will continue until the government shows serious commitment to fixing the system and caring for healthcare workers,” the association warned.

They emphasized that their goal isn’t just better treatment for doctors, but a stronger, more functional healthcare system for all residents of the FCT.

Call for Dialogue and Urgent Action

As of the time of reporting, Dr. Babagana Adam, Permanent Secretary of the FCT Health Services and Environment Secretariat, had not responded to requests for comment.

Meanwhile, patients and healthcare workers alike are urging swift intervention to avoid further loss of life and deterioration of healthcare services in the capital.

“We hope for a quick resolution,” said one concerned patient. “People are dying, and the government must act now.”