Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Nigerian Medical Association, Lagos State branch, has warned that the ongoing warning strike by resident doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital could trigger wider disruptions across Nigeria’s health sector if authorities fail to urgently address longstanding welfare concerns.
The three-day industrial action, declared by the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), LASUTH, follows what doctors describe as the failure of the Lagos State Government and relevant authorities to resolve unresolved welfare and professional issues affecting medical personnel.
In a statement issued on Thursday, NMA Lagos Chairman, Ewonowo Sunday, described the strike as unfortunate and avoidable, blaming delayed negotiations and inadequate responses to doctors’ concerns for the breakdown in industrial harmony.
“We view this development with deep concern. Regrettably, this crisis was avoidable if all concerned stakeholders had been more proactive and responsive in addressing the legitimate concerns raised by the resident doctors,” he said.
According to the NMA, the striking doctors are demanding the implementation of revised professional allowances, payment of specialist allowances for eligible senior registrars, settlement of promotion arrears, approval and release of the 2026 Medical Residency Training Fund, and payment of teaching allowances to registrars and house officers.
The doctors are also seeking the immediate construction and completion of a modern Resident Doctors’ Quarters and Residency Training Centre, alongside stronger security measures to protect healthcare workers and patients.
“These issues are not new. They are long-standing concerns that require urgent attention to prevent further deterioration of morale among healthcare workers,” the association said.
The NMA warned that the dispute reflects broader tensions within Nigeria’s health sector, citing similar welfare concerns involving resident doctors nationwide and ongoing challenges at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
The association noted that strike actions often become unavoidable when sustained dialogue fails to produce meaningful outcomes, adding that doctors’ welfare remains directly linked to quality healthcare delivery.
“We therefore call on the Lagos State Government, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the management of LASUTH and LUTH, and all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly and constructively to address all outstanding welfare issues,” the statement added.
About the Author
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwatobi Adu 
