The Association of Resident Doctors operating under the Federal Capital Territory Administration has announced the suspension of its month-long industrial action, bringing temporary relief to hospitals and health facilities across the Federal Capital Territory in Nigeria.
The President of the Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Doctor George Ebong, confirmed the development in a message issued on Monday, explaining that the decision followed the approval of their long-standing demands by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike. Okay News reports.
The industrial action, which commenced on the first day of November two thousand and twenty five, had crippled healthcare services across various government health institutions in the Federal Capital Territory. Resident doctors withdrew their services to push for better working conditions, improved welfare structures, adequate remuneration, and the fulfilment of previously agreed administrative commitments.
Doctor Ebong stated, “ARD-FCTA has suspended its strike for four weeks with the hope that the approvals from Mr. Minister will be implemented.”
Despite the suspension, the doctors cautioned that they would not hesitate to resume the industrial action if the Federal Capital Territory Administration fails to implement the approved measures within the four-week window.
The Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory Administration is made up of medical practitioners working in fourteen district and general hospitals, as well as within the Department of Public Health under the Federal Capital Territory Administration. Its members play crucial roles in the delivery of frontline healthcare in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, and its environs.
During the thirty-day strike, medical services were significantly disrupted. Patients across multiple facilities experienced prolonged waiting times, postponed medical procedures, and reduced access to specialised care. Healthcare workers who were not part of the strike also faced overwhelming pressure due to the increased workload.
The temporary suspension of the strike has brought relief to residents of the Federal Capital Territory, although many await the government’s next steps, especially regarding the implementation of financial and welfare-related approvals.
Further updates are expected as the new four-week monitoring period unfolds.
