FCT Doctors Call Off Three-Day Warning Strike After Wike’s Intervention

Doctors in the Federal Capital Territory have called off their three-day warning strike following the intervention of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. 

The President of the Association of Resident Doctors, Dr. George Ebong, announced the suspension on Friday, having confirmed that the government had met most of their demands.

The doctors had embarked on the strike on Wednesday to demand payment of six months’ salary arrears and other allowances. They also requested the employment of more healthcare workers.

Dr. Ebong said members have started receiving alerts for their outstanding salaries. Wike also approved the payment of accoutrement allowances and the Medical Residency Training Fund for 2024.

Additionally, the minister approved the immediate recruitment of doctors and allied health workers to address staff shortages. Locum doctors and other health workers will also receive their payments.

Ebong directed all doctors to resume work on Saturday, January 25, 2025. He urged the minister to address pending demands to prevent future industrial actions.

He expressed appreciation to Wike for his prompt intervention, which averted a prolonged shutdown. He called for sustainable measures to prevent similar issues in the future.

The association remains hopeful that unresolved issues, such as hazard allowances and facility upgrades, will be addressed soon. They pledged their support for the government’s health sector reforms.