The Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory (ARD-FCTA), has commenced an indefinite strike effective Monday, September 15, 2025, over the government’s alleged failure to address their long-standing demands.
In a statement signed by the association’s General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, the doctors said the decision followed an emergency general meeting held on September 14.
“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 insisted they would not return to work until both the government and hospital management show genuine commitment to the welfare of doctors and the health of FCT residents.
Last week, the doctors staged a seven-day warning strike to demand improved working conditions, prompt payment of entitlements, and an end to acute manpower shortages.
Speaking earlier on Channels Television, ARD-FCTA Chairman, Dr. George Ebong, highlighted the dire situation, noting that doctors in the FCT are overstretched.
“We have 14 district and general hospitals in the FCT, yet there is a severe shortage of doctors and specialists. 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 said.
He added that the FCT requires at least 200 additional doctors to meet the health needs of residents, warning that the pressure has pushed some medical professionals onto antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs.
The strike, the doctors said, will remain in place until concrete steps are taken to resolve their grievances.