The Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) in the Federal Capital Territory Administration on Monday commenced an indefinite strike, following the expiration of its seven-day warning strike.
The decision was announced in a communiqué signed by ARD-FCT President, Dr. George Ebong, and General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, after an emergency general meeting held on Sunday.
The association, which comprises doctors working in 14 district and general hospitals as well as the FCTA’s Department of Public Health, accused the administration of neglecting its grievances despite several negotiations.
“Congress expressed deep disappointment that none of our demands have been met. This once again confirms our fears of chronic neglect of the healthcare system, which undermines doctors’ ability to deliver care at the highest standard,” the communiqué read.
The Doctors’ Demands
The resident doctors are insisting on:
-
Payment of salary arrears ranging from one to six months for members employed since 2023.
-
Immediate recruitment of additional staff.
-
Release of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund.
-
Settlement of arrears from the 25–35% upward review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS).
-
Clear timelines for promotions, skipping, and conversion processes, with arrears fully paid.
-
Payment of outstanding hazard allowances and wage award arrears.
-
Renovation and equipping of FCTA hospitals to global standards.
-
Settlement of salary arrears owed to newly employed external residents, currently owed three to four months’ pay.
The association also demanded that post-Part II Fellows be converted to Consultant cadre within six months of passing, with documented promotion timelines.
Strike Resolution
The doctors said the strike would continue until the government shows “genuine commitment” to resolving the issues.
“After the most passionate and historic deliberations in ARD-FCT, Congress unanimously resolved that an indefinite strike action will commence at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, September 15, 2025, until the government and management demonstrate genuine commitment to making health in the FCT a priority,” the communiqué stated.
The Federal Government had yet to issue an official response as of press time.