Resident doctors in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory have launched an indefinite strike starting Monday, September 15, 2025, citing the government’s failure to address long-standing issues affecting their welfare and working conditions.
The Association of Resident Doctors, FCTA (ARD-FCTA), confirmed the action in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, following an emergency meeting held the previous day.
“This action follows the failure of management to address any of our legitimate demands, even after a one-week warning strike,” the statement read.
The doctors say they will not return to work until authorities show “genuine commitment” to improving the welfare of medical personnel and the health system in the FCT.
Last week, the association staged a seven-day warning strike to demand better working conditions and payment of outstanding entitlements. They also raised concerns over severe manpower shortages and poor welfare packages, which they claim are affecting both staff morale and patient care.
Speaking on Channels Television last Tuesday, ARD-FCTA Chairman Dr. George Ebong warned that a full strike was imminent if meaningful dialogue did not begin.
“We have 14 district and general hospitals in the FCT, yet there is a severe shortage of doctors and specialists,” he said. “In many cases, one doctor is left to attend to more than 30 or 40 patients and may perform up to 10 caesarean sections.”
Ebong noted that the territory needs at least 200 additional doctors to meet demand. He added that the pressure has driven some doctors to rely on antidepressants and antihypertensive medications.
The association insists the strike will continue until concrete steps are taken to resolve their grievances.
