The Association of Resident Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (ARD-FCT) commenced a seven-day warning strike on Monday to demand urgent reforms in the territory’s health sector.
In a communiqué signed by President George Ebong and other executive members, the doctors described the FCT health system as fraught with chronic systemic failures, calling for immediate and comprehensive reform.
Ebong highlighted the dire working conditions: severe manpower shortages, malfunctioning equipment, unpaid allowances, unpaid salaries, and delayed promotions. Many doctors are reportedly overburdened, covering multiple departments simultaneously, a scenario he warned could precipitate a systemic collapse.
The ARD-FCT has issued a one-week ultimatum to the FCT administration to begin implementing meaningful improvements—particularly in staffing and welfare—or face escalation to an indefinite strike.
Responding on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Minister of State for Health Isaq Salako expressed optimism that ongoing government dialogue with the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) could avert further disruption. He acknowledged that about 40% of the 2025 residency allowances remain unpaid, and assured that discussions are underway to resolve these outstanding issues.
