Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory have downed tools indefinitely, effective Monday, September 15, 2025, in protest over what they described as the government’s failure to address their long-standing grievances.
The Association of Resident Doctors, FCTA (ARD-FCTA), announced the action in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Dr. Agbor Affiong, after an emergency meeting on Sunday, 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 said they would not return to work until authorities demonstrate “genuine commitment to the welfare of doctors and the health of FCT residents.”
The strike follows a seven-day warning action last week, during which the doctors pressed for improved working conditions, payment of outstanding entitlements, and urgent recruitment to address acute manpower shortages.
Speaking earlier on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, ARD-FCTA Chairman, Dr. George Ebong, warned that a total shutdown of services was inevitable if “meaningful dialogue” was not initiated.
“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 in a single shift,” Ebong said.
He noted that the FCT requires at least 200 additional doctors, stressing that the overwhelming pressure has pushed some medical personnel onto antidepressants and antihypertensive drugs.
The ARD-FCTA said the strike would remain in force until concrete steps are taken to resolve their demands.
